A Changing of the Guard: Anthony Campbell Departs Yale for Harvard's Top Police Post

Well, here’s a headline that’s certainly got the campus talking: Anthony Campbell, the man who’s been the steady hand guiding the Yale University Police Department for what feels like ages, is packing his bags. Not for retirement, mind you, but for a new, equally prestigious challenge just up the road. He’s headed to Cambridge, Massachusetts, to take the helm of the Harvard University Police Department.

His last official day with the Bulldogs, if you can believe it, is slated for January 10, 2025. It’s a date that, for many here in New Haven, probably feels a little bittersweet. President Peter Salovey and Vice President for Human Resources and Administration John Whelan were quick, and quite rightly so, to extend their deep gratitude. And honestly, who could blame them? Campbell’s tenure has been nothing short of transformative.

Think about it: he first walked through the doors of the YUPD back in 1999, just a patrol officer, learning the ropes, getting to know the labyrinthine streets of New Haven and the vibrant, often unpredictable, rhythm of university life. From those humble beginnings, he steadily rose through the ranks, eventually taking on the top job as Chief in 2020. That was a time, let’s not forget, fraught with challenges — a global pandemic looming, social unrest, and, yes, the ongoing conversations about policing itself.

But Campbell, you could say, wasn't just about managing crises. Far from it. He championed a vision of policing that was — dare I say — ahead of its time for many institutions. He actively worked to diversify the department’s ranks, ensuring it better reflected the community it served. Body cameras? Implemented. Community policing? Absolutely central. De-escalation training and a more nuanced approach to mental health crises? Standard practice under his leadership. He built bridges, fostering a sense of trust that, in truth, is invaluable.

Campbell himself, reflecting on his time, spoke of immense pride in the progress YUPD has made, and his gratitude to the Yale community. And why shouldn’t he be proud? He leaves behind a department that’s stronger, more responsive, and, arguably, more humane. For now, the interim chief duties will fall to Deputy Chief and Assistant Chief of Administration Mindy Hill — a familiar face, no doubt, and a capable leader to steer the ship as Yale begins the search for its next permanent chief. But, you know, it won't be quite the same without Chief Campbell's steady presence. A new chapter, indeed, for everyone involved.