Seminole State College of Florida has welcomed Miguel Sierra as director of campus safety and security.

According to a press release, Sierra, who began his new role Jan. 6, has extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency and personnel management, and community outreach. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Sierra joined Seminole State after nearly a decade at the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). At SCSO he rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant most recently serving as the Seminole Neighborhood Policing (SNP) South Region commander.

Sierra graduated from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy at Valencia College and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida (UCF). In addition to his certifications through the Emergency Management Institute’s National Incident Management System (NIMS) training program, Sierra holds several certificates related to crime prevention and serving underrepresented populations such as the elderly and people with disabilities. Sierra is also bilingual, speaking English and Spanish.

“I am excited to be here and am thrilled to support a great team of officers who are devoted to protecting our College and upholding our Core Values,” Sierra said. “Security, safety and customer service will continue to be our priorities.”

As director of campus safety and security, Sierra leads safety and security operations for all Seminole State campuses, centers and traffic control; oversees changes in safety and security programs to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations, college policies, and industry standards; acts as a liaison with local law enforcement, state and federal agencies; and advises college administration on safety and security matters. Sierra also serves as the primary safety resource and emergency management coordinator for all College employees and departments and is a member of the College’s Emergency Response Team.