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DECATUR, Ill. -- When Mark Bridges arrived on campus in early January, he brought with him more than four decades of experience in law enforcement, leadership, and training — and a clear commitment to service.

Bridges is serving as Interim Director of through the end of 2026. In this role, he oversees the University’s police, security, and emergency management operations and serves as �鶹Լ��’s Clery Coordinator, helping ensure a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

“I really enjoy being at �鶹Լ��,” Bridges said. “The atmosphere here is welcoming, and there is such a strong focus on making sure students have every opportunity to succeed.”

Bridges’ career spans more than 40 years in law enforcement across Central Illinois. He retired as a Lieutenant from the Springfield Police Department after 26 years of service, where he held a variety of leadership roles, including leading the Gang Enforcement Unit, commanding the Mobile Field Force, and serving as an Emergency Response Team Leader. He also directed police academy training and worked extensively in professional standards and public safety education.

Following his retirement from Springfield, Bridges served as Chief of Police in Virden, Ill., where he focused on rebuilding organizational structure, policies, and training systems. He later continued his work in law enforcement as Training Officer for the Southern View Police Department, where he helped develop administrative policies and training programs.

“I’ve either been in a command role or an educational role most of my career,” Bridges said. “Training, leadership, and accountability have always been at the heart of what I do.”

Bridges holds a master’s degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy — an experience he describes as one of the most meaningful of his professional life.

“It’s the pinnacle of training for law enforcement command staff,” he said. “You’re learning alongside professionals from all over the country and around the world, all with the goal of becoming better leaders and servants in their communities.”

Bridges’ interim role at �鶹Լ�� is twofold: leading the department’s day-to-day operations while also helping prepare the University’s incoming Chief of Police. That preparation includes overseeing field training and sharing leadership insight gained from decades of experience.

“My responsibility is to make sure the department is on track and prepared,” Bridges said. “Emergency preparedness isn’t something you ever finish, it’s a framework that should always be evolving.”

Strengthening relationships with local and regional law enforcement partners has also been a priority. Bridges recently met with Decatur Police Department leadership, reinforcing collaboration and communication between agencies.

“Law enforcement is a profession where relationships matter,” he said. “Working together makes everyone safer.”

Bridges emphasizes that public safety at �鶹Լ�� is rooted in support, reassurance, and partnership with students.

“I want students to live their lives and enjoy their college experience,” he said. “We’re here to help, to be present, and to make sure they feel safe — not as an adversary, but as a resource.”

Married for more than 40 years to his wife, Sandy, Bridges is a father and grandfather who describes family and service as central to his life. His philosophy toward law enforcement, he says, aligns closely with that foundation.

“When done properly, law enforcement is a servant-oriented profession,” Bridges said. “That belief has guided my entire career, and it’s what I bring with me to �鶹Լ��.”