Savannah State University appoints Sydney Thomas as Interim Chief of Police

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah State University (SSU) has appointed Assistant Chief Sydney Thomas to serve as Interim Chief of Police, effective immediately, according to a media release WTOC just received.

The release states that in this role, Thomas will oversee all campus safety operations, including law enforcement, emergency response, and crime prevention initiatives. The university has also launched a national search for a new Chief of Police.

“Assistant Chief Thomas is a trusted leader who understands our campus, our students, and our community,” said Savannah State University President Dr. Jermaine Whirl. “Her experience and steady leadership will ensure continuity of service and safety as we move through this transition.”

Thomas has been a member of the Savannah State University Police Department since 2013 and has served on the department’s leadership team in her role as Assistant Chief, according to the release.

During her tenure, she has played a key role in supporting daily operations, supervising officers, and advancing community-oriented policing efforts on campus.

“Savannah State University remains committed to providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” the release states.