INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Mike Braun announced Tuesday that Julie Q. Smith, of Columbus, will serve as the first Director of the Indiana Office of School Safety. Smith recently retired from the Columbus Police Department. She oversaw the School Resource Officer Division in Columbus, comprising 18 schools. Sgt. Smith is a former school resource officer for Bartholomew County Schools.
She is a National Instructor for the National Association of School Resource Officers as well as Regional Director for the Midwest states, President of the Indiana School Resource Officers Association, and has been recognized for her proactive, evidence-based leadership on strengthening schools and promoting school safety legislation.
As Director of the Indiana Office of School Safety, Julie Smith brings experience and an unwavering commitment to protecting Hoosier students.
Gov. Braun stated, “Providing a safe and secure environment for Hoosier students to learn and grow is a top priority for me both as Governor and as a father and grandfather. Our Office of School Safety puts that priority into action, and Sgt. Smith is uniquely qualified and dedicated to this mission to strengthen our schools and help students thrive.”
Julie Q. Smith said, “I’ve dedicated my career to keeping students safe, and it’s an honor to put my experience to work strengthening Indiana schools and communities as the Director of the Office of School Safety.”