Christian McClain walks the campus of Tennessee State University as a student with a mission rooted in legacy and service. A Nashville native and rising sophomore majoring in criminal justice, McClain is spending his summer interning with TSU’s Police Department. He’s gaining hands-on experience reviewing camera footage, shadowing officers, and helping with day-to-day tasks. Efforts to learn the ropes of a career path of his late father, Commander Anthony McClain, a TSU alumnus and North Precinct Commander for the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, who passed away in March 2025.

“TSU PD has been doing well on campus,” McClain said. “Over the years, I’ve witnessed improvements. I feel safe here.”

In 2024, TSU PD achieved state accreditation, a major milestone that affirmed the department’s ongoing commitment to safety. This recognition is the first in the department’s history. The accreditation was granted by the Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation (TLEA) Program, a recognition from the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP) Board of Directors Professional Standards Committee.

“The accreditation goes to show that TSU PD has the will to improve and will continue to do so,” he added. After graduation, McClain plans to follow in his father’s footsteps and join Metro Police, with aspirations of one day starting his own security firm.

McClain’s mission mirrors a broader effort at TSU, where safety measures and crime prevention strategies are making a measurable difference.

Crime on campus has dropped by 35% so far since the 2024-2025 school year, according to TSU Police Chief Gregory Robinson. “The goal is to continue keeping our faculty, students, and staff safe while minimizing any threats or risks to our university,” he said. “We will enhance our coverage and visibility by adding more officers and security measures.”

Key advancements have played a major role in that progress. Funded through Title III and a Higher Education Safety grant, the department has acquired eight portable surveillance trailers, known as Live Video Technology (LVT), which help monitor key areas across campus .

Robinson also stated that visibility remains a key factor in TSU PD’s success both in active patrolling on campus and off campus community outreach.

“We have done a great job getting out of our vehicles, patrolling, and being visible,” he said. “Our students engage with officers when there’s a uniform presence. Accreditation has proven that we’re using the best practices that are beneficial across the country.”

Robinson noted that the department works daily to strengthen its approach to safety and build trust across campus. “We’ve been successful, but we’re not a finished product,” he said. “Every day, we strive to be a better department and provide a conducive environment for our faculty, staff, visitors, and most importantly, our students.”

Six newly hired officers will begin police academy training this summer, bringing the department’s total to nearly 30 officers. In addition, new in-car laptops are helping officers stay visible and responsive while completing reports in the field.

TSU is also expanding campus infrastructure with additional security features. Dr. Eddie Cribbs, Executive Director of Auxiliary and Support Services, said the university is working to install even more cameras and emergency call boxes. These are towers that provide direct access to the TSU Police Department for emergencies. As of July, there are nearly 30 of these call boxes on campus.

“We’re expanding camera coverage across campus, including the tennis courts and the Avon Williams campus,” Cribbs said. “We’re adding more Code Blue emergency boxes at both campuses. When students feel safe they are able to show up fully  to learn, to lead, to thrive, and to experience a true sense of belonging. Campus safety is more than just protection. It means creating an environment where every student feels seen, valued, and at home.”

For TSU students like McClain, these efforts continue to build a safe and supportive environment. One that reflects a strong future supported by an accredited police department.

“I’m hoping to gain more knowledge in this field,” McClain said. “And with this internship with TSU PD, I’ve been doing so.”

To learn more about TSU PD, visit www.tnstate.edu/police.