Jeffrey L. Clark was appointed Chief of Police for the University of Georgia Police Department in August 2023, following a national search. With 26 years of law enforcement experience at both UGAPD and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Clark has held numerous leadership roles, including deputy chief and head of several specialized units. A U.S. Army veteran and graduate of the FBI National Academy, Clark also served as UGA’s first Deputy Chief for Engagement, Training and Standards, where he focused on community outreach, officer wellness, and modern policing strategies.
Clark’s appointment follows the promotion of former Chief Dan Silk to Associate Vice President for Public Safety. As Chief of Police, Clark will oversee law enforcement and public safety operations that support UGA’s academic and student life missions. His leadership emphasizes trust-building, innovation, and collaboration between UGA and the Athens community. University officials, including Vice President for Finance and Administration Ryan Nesbit, expressed strong confidence in Clark’s ability to lead, citing his extensive background and commitment to public safety.
