Security Corner: Meet Sgt. Anthony Jones

By Lauren Max, Anna Garmezy, and Sarah Rubin, Parent Members of the Safety and Security Advisory Committee 

A safe and secure school environment is important for the well-being of students, faculty, and staff. Many studies show how the correlation between safety and positive school culture leads to increased engagement and better educational outcomes. Building a culture of safety does not happen overnight, it takes commitment and involves the entire school community. A culture of safety builds confidence, not fear, and empowers staff with the tools and training necessary to effectively respond to emergencies.

USN remains committed to providing a safe, secure, and nurturing environment in which students, faculty, and staff can thrive and enjoy the USN experience. This school year, USN has hired several School Resource Officers and Community Service Officers to engage with students and participate in community activities. Please take a moment to meet our SRO of the Week: Sgt. Anthony Jones.

Q: Tell us about your training.
A: I began my career working as a local correctional officer and then served as a Deputy with Davidson County Sheriff’s Department. I worked for Vanderbilt University Police Department for the past 22 years. At VUPD, I served in various roles, most recently as a Sergeant with One Hundred Oaks and as a Bike Officer. Since becoming a police officer, I have been trained as a First Responder and School Resource Officer, as well as in verbal judo/de-escalation techniques, critical incident management, and active shooter protocol. I am also a certified SWAT officer and team leader.

Q: What do you love about your job?
A: My dad was a police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department. Seeing him do this job influenced me to do it too. What I really love about this profession is using our resources to help people from all walks of life and diverse communities. We’re kind of like social and mental health workers but with badges.

Q: What is your favorite thing about USN?
A: Meeting the USN community members and assisting with traffic control to help get our community in and out of USN safely.

Q: What is something people may not know about you?
A: I am an avid collector of comic books.

Q: Tell us about your family.
A: I’m happily married and have two wonderful grown daughters.

Click here to read more about Sgt. Anthony Jones.