As students prepare to don their cap and gowns before walking on stage to receive their diplomas, Terry King said this time of year reminds him of his own educational journey.

King was recently hired by Temple University’s Department of Public Safety (TUDPS) as its new captain of professional standards and advocacy. Previously, he served as the deputy chief of detectives in the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, where he rose through the ranks of detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain while simultaneously earning multiple degrees.

“Throughout my 25-year law enforcement career, I always had aspirations of ascending to a leadership role that would allow me to continue to help others, while building future leaders. So, I felt a masters degree and a doctoral degree would equip me with the tools and resources I needed to elevate myself and the organization I was working. They have proved to be crucial as I champion best organizational practices,” he said.

King earned a master of science in criminology from Saint Joseph’s University in 2002 and an EdD degree in organizational leadership from Stockton University in 2022. He said his love of learning helped to expand his view of his professional life while also enhancing his passion for working in academia.

“To our graduating Owls, I would encourage them to consider pursuing more education, because what you're doing is setting the stage for your future and preparing yourself for bigger and greater things to come,” he said. 

King believes that his education, law enforcement experience and experience in higher education as an adjunct faculty member will benefit his current role with TUDPS. 

“There are a lot of stressors for our students that involve the end of the school year. So, if students need an active listener or want someone they can talk to, then I would provide them with options,” King said. “Through the advocacy part of my role, I will help students and also provide them with needed resources, guidance and supportive direction. They may not be a victim of crime but they may still need our services.” 

During his own educational journey, King wrote his dissertation about community-oriented policing within a metropolitan area. His research focused on Camden City, however, he said the results may relate to other communities, like North Philadelphia. 

“The findings of my research revealed that community policing officers and associated initiatives needed to be sincere in order to be effective and to also receive buy-in from the community. So, I found that community police officers who were devoted to the job did a really good job of building connections and sustainable partnerships, in return, gained trust, respect, and increased buy-in from the community,” King said. “It’s clear that Temple Public Safety’s own community engagement unit is doing the work with sincerity. They are continuing to build relationships with the North Philadelphia community with projects like their book donations, annual children’s holiday party and more. And that’s something I also want to become involved in.”

King said that in his current role, he also plans to utilize lessons he’s learned throughout his career. For instance, at the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office he supervised several units, including its homicide unit, narcotics unit, major crimes unit, high tech crimes unit, the community outreach and engagement unit and special victims unit (SVU). 

“I think, in particular, my time as an SVU detective will help in my current role because we had to acquire a comprehensive and specialized certification to speak with children and young adults. Additionally, my time spent supervising and actively working with our community outreach and engagement unit will benefit North Philadelphia as Temple Public Safety continues to host events that engage our community members and provide services to our North Philadelphia community. So, I hope to relate, and provide an impactful experience to our student base as well as our community partners,” King said. 

Jennifer Griffin, TUDPS’ chief of police and vice president, said King’s experience will benefit the entire Temple community.

“Captain King brings a unique blend of compassion and intelligence to this role, along with a passion for progressive law enforcement. He is joining a department that is committed to making a difference in the lives of the Temple and North Philadelphia communities. There is no doubt that he will continue our mission of making our communities safer and stronger,” Griffin said. 

King is looking forward to connecting with students, faculty, administration, and community members, alike.

“To work in a job that combines public safety and a university setting is both a unique opportunity and challenge. It is one that I always wanted to work in,” he said. “I’m living out my dream job.”