New Public Safety Director Chris Nelson joins MSUM
Chris Nelson has begun his new duties as MSUM’s Director of Public Safety. Nelson has 15 years of experience in emergency and facility management and 13 years of experience teaching and implementing facility safety and emergency preparedness programs.
“I am pleased to welcome Chris to our campus community and the President’s Cabinet,” said President Anne Blackhurst. “His experience and leadership capabilities will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the safety and security of our campus. I am confident that under his direction Pubic Safety will be an active and engaged partner in supporting our educational mission.”
Most recently, Nelson worked at the Hennepin County Department of County Corrections and Rehabilitations where he was responsible for the development of emergency operation plans and safety procedures for adult and juvenile men’s and women’s detention facilities including the Hennepin County Juvenile Home School. He also managed and directed its Office Safety and Inspection Program (OSI)– including OSHA and National Fire Protection Association work safe practices.
In addition, for twelve years, Nelson was a fire captain/safety officer for the Metropolitan Airport Commission, Bloomington, MN, emergency manager for Fairview Hospital System, Minneapolis, and he has served as a search and rescue command task force officer and firefighter. Nelson has a B.S. degree in Engineering/Design Technology from Bemidji State University and is completing a M.S. in Public Safety Leadership from Capella University.
Search committee members were Randy Cagle, Chair, Dean CHSS, Stephanie Schmidt, Sergeant, Public Safety, Sara Hartwig, Financial Aid and Scholarships (MSUAAFF ), Katie Richardson Jens, Sociology and Criminal Justice (IFO), Gary Lacher, Groundskeeper Intermediate (AFSCME), and Kyle Kopacek, Grounds and Roads Maintenance Supervisor (MMA).