Portland State University is pleased to announce Sgt. Willie Halliburton as its new Chief of Campus Public Safety. Halliburton will replace Interim Chief Joe Schilling who will resume his role as CPSO lieutenant following 12 months as the interim.

Incoming Chief Halliburton has worked for PSU since February 2016, following a 32-year police career. Halliburton served with the Portland Police Bureau from 1990 until his retirement in 2016. A graduate of Kansas State University, he’s held a variety of patrol and special assignment positions. While serving with PPB, Halliburton was active in the community and continues to promote the philosophy of community policing — the foundation of his entire career.

“I believe deeply that safety comes from developing relationships in the community and treating people with respect,” Halliburton said. “My ultimate goal as Chief, is to build trust between CPSO and the PSU community — staff, faculty and particularly students. I recognize the need for change and to honestly address the concerns of the PSU community.”

Halliburton has served as a contributing member of the University Public Safety Oversight Committee and currently mentors several PSU student athletes. He is committed to community engagement, open communication and fostering a collaborative approach to campus safety. 

“I look forward to working with Chief Halliburton and the PSU community as we re-examine public safety during this evolutionary time. His roots at Portland State and history in community policing will be important assets as we work toward a more inclusive community for all students, staff, faculty and visitors,” said PSU President Stephen Percy. “He will continue to promote diversity and develop accountability and trust between campus safety and the campus community.”