Amarillo College welcomes new police chief

Amarillo College has officially appointed Elizabeth Brown as its new police chief. Brown was sworn in during Tuesday’s Board of Regents meeting, marking the beginning of her tenure overseeing the college’s campus safety operations.

“Elizabeth's experience and steady leadership will strengthen our safety operations and support the trust our community places in us,” said Mark White, Amarillo College vice president and general counsel.

Brown brings 24 years of law enforcement experience to her new role. Her career began with the Amarillo Police Department, where she served as a dispatcher from 2000 to 2002 before becoming a police officer. In 2016, she became the first woman to achieve the rank of captain in the Amarillo Police Department, earning the promotion by posting the highest score in a competitive examination for a single captain’s position.

Brown holds a master’s degree from West Texas A&M University and is also an Amarillo College alumna. She is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and has received recognition from the International Association of Chiefs of Police as a Top 40 Under 40 Awardee. Additionally, she is a certified Texas School Safety and Security Consultant.

Reflecting on her new position, Brown said, “It is an honor to serve Amarillo College and contribute to a community deeply committed to student success. My focus is on building strong partnerships, supporting our officers and staff, and ensuring our safety practices reflect professionalism, transparency, and care for every person on our campuses.”

As police chief, Brown will lead a comprehensive review of the college’s safety operations, policies, and capabilities. According to the college, her priorities will include evaluating the organizational structure of the Amarillo College Police Department, strengthening the College’s Emergency Operations Plan, and reviewing interagency partnerships to enhance coordination and effectiveness.

Brown’s appointment comes at a time when many colleges nationwide are placing increased attention on campus safety and emergency preparedness. With her extensive law enforcement background and leadership experience, Brown is expected to guide the college in aligning its safety strategies with best practices in higher education law enforcement.

College officials have highlighted Brown’s record of professional achievement and community engagement as key factors in her selection. Her prior experience in law enforcement leadership positions and recognition from professional organizations underscores the college’s focus on both operational expertise and community trust.

The college community can expect continued efforts to maintain a secure environment for students, faculty, and staff. Brown’s emphasis on transparency and professionalism aims to reinforce the relationship between the police department and the wider campus community.

Amarillo College’s police department oversees multiple campuses and works closely with local law enforcement and emergency services. Brown’s leadership is expected to influence the department’s strategic direction, emergency response readiness, and overall approach to campus safety.

With her swearing-in complete, Brown begins her role as the head of Amarillo College Police Department, bringing a combination of experience, education, and recognition to the position. College officials and community members alike will be watching as she implements her vision for safety and collaboration on campus.