Robert Pratt, of Portsmouth, has been named the new security chief at Shawnee State University bringing more than 30 years service in law enforcement to the university.
            Pratt retired from the Portsmouth Police Department after 27 years service beginning as a patrol officer and retiring as captain of the Detective Division. He then accepted a position as assistant superintendent of the Scioto County Juvenile Detention Center and began a security program for Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing Authority before coming to the university.
            “I grew up here in Portsmouth and I saw what this used to be and how it evolved into the beautiful campus that it is,” Pratt said. “When I saw this job available, I knew this would be a great opportunity and I knew they wanted to accelerate their security program here on campus. Everyone here has been so fantastic and welcoming.”
            Pratt has an associate’s degree in law enforcement technology and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, both from Ohio University. He is also a graduate of Northwestern University School of Staff and Command through the Traffic Institute, comparable to the national FBI academy.
            “Our goal is to have a safe environment at the university for our students, faculty, staff and our guests,” he said. “We have 12 security officers and provide 24-hour service to the university. We are looking to expand programs and additional training for our officers.”