Connolly joined GTPD in 2010 as deputy chief of police, later serving as both acting chief and interim chief. At Tech, Connolly has directed the operational activities of GTPD as well as developed and implemented a five-year strategic plan. He also oversaw the process of GTPD’s certification through the prestigious Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), and provided guidance for the department’s intelligence-led policing model.

“I appreciate the confidence the Institute’s leadership has placed in me,” Connolly said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to build the Georgia Tech Police Department as a best-in-class law enforcement operation and strengthening our partnerships on and around campus.” 

Connolly brings more than 20 years of law enforcement experience to this position, including serving with the Georgia World Congress Center, City of Sandy Springs, Georgia Emergency Management Agency, and MARTA. He has also managed security for NFL Super Bowls and the NCAA men’s basketball championships and has coordinated emergency management exercises throughout the state. He is a graduate of Kennesaw State University, Columbus State University, and the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College. 

A retirement celebration for former chief Teresa Crocker will be held Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the President’s Suite, Bill Moore Student Success Center.