Albany Technical College’s Police Department was honored today during a special statewide Awards Luncheon recognizing a groundbreaking achievement: all 21 college police departments within the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) have officially earned State Certification—a historic first for any college system in the nation.

Held on July 22, 2025, the luncheon celebrated this unprecedented milestone, which sets a new national benchmark for excellence in campus safety, professionalism, and public trust. The certification demonstrates each department’s commitment to enhanced training, operational effectiveness, and law enforcement best practices.

“For our department, state certification is more than a recognition—it’s a promise to our campus community,” said LaShawnda Ethridge, Chief of Police at Albany Technical College. “It holds us to a higher standard, gives the community more confidence in our policies and procedures, and showcases the professionalism of our team. This labor of love was an exceptional example of teamwork in every sense of the word. It required a great deal of dedication and hard work, but it was completely worth it.”

The Georgia State Certification Program requires law enforcement agencies to meet rigorous professional standards in areas such as professionalism, transparency, ethical conduct, community engagement, and operational integrity. Certification not only boosts public confidence but also reduces liability risks and promotes operational consistency.

Dr. Emmett Griswold, President of Albany Technical College, applauded the achievement. “Our police department has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to campus safety and service,” said Dr. Griswold. “This certification reflects the integrity, professionalism, and leadership that Chief Ethridge and her team bring to our college every day. We are proud to be part of a system-wide accomplishment that raises the bar for campus policing across the country.”

The ceremony brought together law enforcement officials, college presidents, and state leaders to recognize the teamwork and dedication that made this historic milestone possible.