Fayetteville State University has selected Damon D. Williams, a distinguished law enforcement leader and educator, as its new chief of police and associate vice chancellor for Police and Public Safety. His duties will begin Dec. 8.

With more than 20 years of leadership experience in both municipal and university law enforcement, Williams is recognized for his commitment to community policing, modernizing departments and fostering public trust.

“Appointing Chief Williams reflects our deep, ongoing commitment to ensuring campus safety remains the top priority at Fayetteville State University,” said Chancellor Darrell T. Allison in a press release. “Chief Williams’ proven track record and deep understanding of university policing align with our mission to provide a secure and safe environment where every Bronco can thrive.”

In his new role, Williams will oversee campus police and safety operations, coordinate emergency response planning and further advance the university’s dedication to creating a secure and welcoming environment for all. At FSU, the Department of Police and Public Safety reports directly to the vice chancellor for Legal, Audit, Risk, and Compliance (LARC).

“At Fayetteville State University, we set the bar high for campus safety and leadership,” said Wanda L. Jenkins, vice chancellor for LARC and general counsel, in a press release. “We are confident that under his leadership, our Bronco community will continue to put safety first.” 

Williams returns to his alma mater, where he began his law enforcement career as a part-time campus police officer. Most recently, he served as chief of police and director of Public Safety at North Carolina Central University, where he managed law enforcement operations, implemented security strategies, and oversaw emergency management initiatives.  

“Leading public safety at Fayetteville State is an extraordinary opportunity to give back to the institution that launched my career,” Williams said in a release. “I believe in the power of collaboration and open dialogue. Together, we can build a community where safety is a shared priority, and every Bronco feels valued and protected.”
Beyond higher education, Williams has served as chief of police in Mooresville, Tarboro, Maxton and Taylortown, N.C. His leadership resulted in securing over $1.1 million in state and federal grants to upgrade equipment, expand staff training and enhance community programs in these municipalities.
In addition to his law enforcement roles, Williams has taught criminal justice and freshmen seminar courses as an adjunct instructor at NCCU, Edgecombe Community College and Sandhills Community College.

Williams holds a master's degree in public administration from Columbia Southern University, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from FSU and an associate degree in criminal justice technology from Sandhills Community College. He also completed the Executive Leadership Program at the University of Virginia and the FBI Command College.

Currently, Williams serves as Vice President of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Law Enforcement Executives and Administrators, and he is a former president of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police.