Chief Kerry Stallings is redefining leadership in higher education policing through his unwavering commitment to officer wellness and mental health advocacy. As chief of police for the University System of Georgia, Chief Stallings oversees more than 800 officers across 26 institutions, bringing a deeply personal and purpose-driven approach to his statewide role. 

Inspired to pursue policing by his experiences working with at-risk children and desire to help people, Chief Stallings’ career started in 2008. As a detective, he worked with human trafficking and electronic crime task forces, where he saw firsthand the impact of these crimes on not only the victims, but also the officers. Upon promotion to a leadership role, he found his purpose in advocating for the men and women under his charge. 

A former captain in Powder Springs, Georgia, Chief Stallings has long championed the importance of mental health in law enforcement. His doctoral research focuses on mandating mental health training for officers statewide, and his leadership has already sparked critical conversations, including a transformative moment where a fellow chief found the courage to seek help. 

Chief Stallings’ impact is rooted in empathy. Whether responding to a suicidal officer or building a connection with a person experiencing homelessness, he serves and leads with compassion and purpose. In addition to his role as chief, he also serves on Georgia’s POST council and teaches criminal justice as an adjunct professor. His accolades include the Governor’s Public Safety Award for heroism and national recognition for his community-first policing style.

“I am motivated when I see people overcome their circumstances to succeed. I love to see growth and ownership.”