NEW LONDON, CT – Mitchell College recently welcomed George Potts as director of campus safety. In this role, he will oversee the campus safety team, which provides security on campus, responds to campus emergencies, and protects college property. He will also serve as a key member of the institutional Title IX Team and manage the Crisis Response Team.

Potts brings more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement, including six years at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Police Department, most recently as interim chief of police. Prior to that, he served for 25 years in numerous positions in the City of New London Police Department – including lieutenant/shift commander, street sergeant, detective sergeant, vice and narcotics, anti-violence team member, and K-9 handler – before retiring in 2015.

Over the course of his career, he has earned dozens of awards and certifications and completed many leadership courses, including the FBI National Academy, an invitation-only professional development course for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders in Quantico, Va. Potts is also a graduate of Roger Williams University Command Training School and served as commander of two Presidential visits to the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London.

A lifelong resident of New London, he is a graduate of Three Rivers Community College and Saint Bernard High School and a current elected member of the Safe Futures board of directors. Before his current position at Mitchell College, Potts worked at the college as a presenter, teaching students and staff about illicit drug recognition and alcohol abuse.

Dr. Alicia Martinez, Mitchell College dean of student experience and belonging, said, “Mitchell College is dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for our diverse campus community to live, learn and work. George Potts will expertly lead our campus safety team and guide other areas of the college with his deep experience and vast knowledge. His strong ties to New London, both as a resident and longtime city police officer, will ensure that Mitchell continues to be a good neighbor to all. We are thrilled that he is here.”

Potts said, “I couldn’t be happier to be back working in New London, on behalf of the students, faculty and staff at Mitchell College. Mitchell is one of the city’s great institutions, and I look forward to making sure it continues to be a safe and welcoming place for our campus community and visitors alike.”