Kimberly Spears-McNatt named Associate VP for Public Safety

Kimberly Spears-McNatt joins Clemson University as Associate Vice President for Public Safety. Spears-McNatt comes to Clemson after three decades with the Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD), including over five years as Chief of Police.

In her new role beginning this fall, Spears-McNatt will lead the Department of Public Safety, encompassing the areas responsible for the safety and security of the Clemson University community, which includes Police, Fire & EMS, Emergency Management and Tiger One.

We are excited to welcome Kimberly Spears-McNatt to Clemson as our Associate Vice President for Public Safety. With her many years of leadership experience and service and her knowledge of higher education, Kimberly will continue to elevate our Department of Public Safety and ensure the safety and security of our Clemson Community.

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT JIM CLEMENTS

Spears-McNatt became the first female Chief of Police for OSUPD on January 1, 2019, after serving as interim chief for six months. The appointment was the culmination of an extensive career with OSUPD that began in 1994, following her graduation from Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

“I am so humbled and honored to be joining the Clemson Family,” said Spears-McNatt. “Thank you to Ohio State University for allowing me to serve as your Chief of Police. This is an amazing opportunity, and I look forward to continuing the great work being done in Public Safety and cultivating a thriving community at Clemson.”

Prior to her appointment as Chief of Police, Spears-McNatt served as Deputy Chief of Police from 2016-18. In that role she supervised the Patrol Bureau, Support Services and Training Coordinator, while leading the department’s accreditation process for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

Spears-McNatt is a member of the Police Executive Research Forum, the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA) and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.

During her 30-year career, Spears-McNatt has received numerous honors and accolades, including the IACLEA President’s Award, OSUPD Commendation Award and Medal of Valor and the Ohio Department of Public Safety Distinguished Service Award.

In addition to her bachelor’s degree from OSU, Spears-McNatt earned a master’s degree in human services management from Franklin University in 2003. She is also a graduate of the IACLEA Executive Development Institute and the FBI National Academy, as well as the Police Executive Leadership College and Certified Law Enforcement Executive program.

Upon her arrival at Clemson, Spears-McNatt will lead the search for the University’s next Chief of Police.