The former police chief has decided to rejoin the university and continue his career as a member of the Elon community.
“Dennis recently contacted us and asked if it was possible to return to a job and community that he loved,” said Bob Shea, associate vice president for business, finance and technology. “We were searching for someone like Chief Franks – a leader with integrity, community policing experience, a student-centered focus and a collaborative style. We are fortunate that he is willing to bring those qualities back to Elon and continue his career here.”
Franks joined Elon in 2012 and led development and growth of the department for more than six years. After a 22-year career in law enforcement, he resigned in May to transition to a security position in the corporate sector. He quickly realized that he missed his work at the university.
“I am grateful that Elon will allow me to continue to do the work I love,” Franks said. “This university is a great community with a family atmosphere, and the solid relationships I have here are the cornerstone of my working philosophy. I enjoy protecting the safety and security of the people here and working with young men and women who are preparing to be leaders in our society.”
Franks returns to the job on Monday, July 2, and will immediately pick up his ongoing work to gain accreditation for the department through the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA). The organization has scheduled a site evaluation visit to Elon in July.
IACLEA represents campus public safety leaders at more than 1,200 institutions of higher education and offers accreditation to colleges and university law enforcement, security, and public safety departments. IACLEA accreditation constitutes recognition that a department conforms to the highest professional standards for campus law enforcement and protective services.