Executive Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police
January 10, 2024 10:16 AM

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

I am pleased to share with you that Matt Ballinger will become the executive director of public safety and chief of police. His appointment will begin Feb. 1 pending approval by the Board of Trustees. The title until officially approved will be interim executive director of public safety and chief of police. 

Ballinger has served as the interim executive director of public safety and chief of police since Oct. 2023. He was initially hired as a police officer with the University of Illinois Police Department in 2004. Over his nearly 20-year tenure with the university, he has garnered public recognition for his outstanding contributions to safety and service.

Aside from being deeply rooted within our university community, Ballinger brings a very clear understanding of 21st century policing, overseeing programs that promote relationship building, community outreach and support for mental health and wellness. His strong police work, administrative experience and knowledge of our university have helped form strong partnerships across the university and local community.

I want to thank the search committee for their diligent and thoughtful work throughout the entire search process. I also want to thank the entire Division of Public Safety for their service year after year.  

There is no higher priority for us than ensuring that our university community is as safe as possible for our students, faculty, staff and visitors. I am excited to have Matt Ballinger lead that effort for us.

Sincerely,
 
Mike DeLorenzo
Vice Chancellor for Administration and Operations