Doug Conn, the very first Police Chief at Angelina College (AC), has officially retired after more than 40 years in law enforcement. A special retirement ceremony was held on Tuesday to honour his service, marking the end of a long and respected career.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Doug Conn’s journey with Angelina College began way back in 1993, when he joined as a training specialist. Since then, he has played a major role in shaping the college’s police and safety programs.
In 2017, AC President Dr. Michael Simon appointed him as the college’s first Chief of Police. Under Conn’s leadership, the Angelina College Police Department was created, and from 2018 to 2021, he also served as Director of the Regional Police Academy. From 2021 to 2025, he took on an additional responsibility—leading the Angelina College Fire Academy.
Champion of “Community Policing”
One of Conn’s biggest achievements was introducing and strengthening the idea of community policing at Angelina College. According to Dr. Simon, Conn made the campus not only safer but also friendlier.
“Chief Conn believed that police officers should build relationships with students and staff,” Simon said. “That kind of trust is what every community wants from its police department.”
Conn’s efforts made it common to see positive interactions between students and officers, creating a welcoming environment on campus.
A Man of Many Talents
Conn was also known for his fun and energetic personality. Apart from his duties as chief, he was often seen playing the role of DJ at AC events. Whether it was handling security or spinning music, Conn always went the extra mile.
Kim Capps, Specialist of Police Department and Public Safety at AC, praised Conn for his teamwork and sense of fun. “We worked hard, but we always had fun doing it. You’ll be missed terribly,” she said during the ceremony.
What’s Next for Chief Conn?
Although he’s retiring from Angelina College, Conn isn’t stepping away from service just yet. He’ll now be working with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, where he’ll join Sheriff Chuck Havard—who was actually one of Conn’s police academy cadets back in 1994.
It’s a full-circle moment for Conn, showing how his impact as a mentor has continued for decades.