After nine years as Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police for Ball State, Jim Duckham will retire Aug. 31, according to a statement from the University.

Prior to joining the University Police Department, Duckham worked in public safety and law enforcement at The State University of New York (SUNY) – Purchase, SUNY – Dutchess Community College, New York City, the town of Greenburgh and White Plains.

In his role at Ball State, Duckham led the University Police Department and Parking Services.

"Chief Duckham's legacy includes modernizing and professionalizing a well-trained University Police Department focused on community policing," the statement read. "The impact of his leadership will be seen and felt on our campus for years to come."

Effective Aug. 31, Associate Director of Public Safety and Assistant Chief of Police Al Williams will serve as the Interim Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police as the search process for the next permanent Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police will begin immediately, according to the statement.

Williams, a graduate of Ball State and the Northwestern School of Police, Staff and Command, served with the Muncie Police Department for 25 years, moving from patrol officer to Captain and Patrol Divison Commander.

There will be a retirement reception for Chief Duckham from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 25 in the L.A. Pittenger Student Center Terrace Lounge (second floor). 

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