Ann Arbor native Kenneth (Ken) Magee has been named the next executive director of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), beginning Nov. 14.
“As the executive director of DPS, Ken will be responsible for assuming a leadership role in the development and application of policies and procedures for crime prevention, loss prevention, law enforcement, and safety and security services at the University,” says Hank Baier, associate vice president for Facilities & Operations. “Please join me in welcoming back Ken Magee to the University of Michigan campus community.”
Magee replaces Bill Bess, who after 10 years as executive director of DPS will become special advisor to the AVP of Facilities & Operations.
Magee, who attended U-M as a graduate student, earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in criminal justice from Michigan State University. His father was a professor of neurology and his mother a doctoral candidate with a master’s degree in social work at U-M.
He spent four years working as a police officer in Jackson, then worked as a federal agent and supervisor in various locations, including a six-year assignment overseas. He joins the University following an accomplished career with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), most recently in Washington D.C. He has 15 years experience working as a supervisor or executive leader in law enforcement.
Magee, who speaks fluent Spanish, has received distinguished awards from the FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshal and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. He is involved in numerous non-profit organizations that promote healthy lifestyles with an emphasis on reducing underage drinking, substance abuse and suicide prevention for youth. He also has appeared as an expert on CNN, A&E Learning Channel and participated in numerous media interviews.
The following committee members assisted Baier with the national search:
• Paula Allen-Meares, former dean, Norma Radin Collegiate Professor of Social Work and professor of education, School of Social Work
• Bret Chaness, student, Michigan Student Assembly, chair of the Campus Safety Commission
• Stephen Hipkiss, facilities and operations manager, University Library; member, Campus Safety and Security Advisory Committee; and chair, Police Oversight Committee
• Stacy Johnson, human resources officer, Office of the Associate Vice President for Facilities & Operations
• John Matlock, director, Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives; associate vice provost, Office of the Provost
• Greg O’Dell, chief of police, Eastern Michigan University
• Tom Peterson, associate director of operations and support services, U-M Hospitals and Health Centers and
• Jennifer Schrage, director, Office of Student Conflict Resolution, Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.
