The George Washington University has solicited broad input in recent weeks from key stakeholders on campus representing students, faculty, staff, GW Police Department officers and leadership as it begins the search for the permanent chief of the department.
Supported by Public Sector Search and Consulting, a search firm focused on the recruitment of police executives, the university is now working to finalize recruitment materials and a job posting that define the mission and vision of GWPD and the skills needed in a new chief.
Interim Chief Ian Greenlee has led GWPD since October 2024. In March 2025, the university announced enhancements to the campus safety structure and leadership, including the appointment of Katie McDonald as interim associate vice president for campus safety. In this role, McDonald oversees Emergency Management, University Resilience, GWorld, the Office of Advocacy and Support and GWPD.
“By collaborating with our many campus stakeholders in this search, we are prioritizing greater transparency and partnership on campus safety,” McDonald said. “We are asking what experience, ideas, qualities and values the next chief of police should bring to the position that would contribute to fostering a safer campus environment; recruiting, hiring and training officers and staff; building trust; and increasing partnership with the greater D.C. community.”
A position description is forthcoming, and the university anticipates identifying candidates for interviews over the coming weeks. Candidates will meet with GW leadership and the union representing GWPD officers, as well as members of the Campus Safety Advisory Committee, Campus Safety’s Student Advisory Board, and EMeRG.
“Safety is a shared responsibility across our entire community,” said Vice President for Safety and Operations Baxter Goodly. “We are grateful for the community’s continued partnership in fostering a safe and secure campus, and we look forward to identifying a strong law enforcement leader who will help advance our collective efforts.”