Chief Brown began her career as a patrol officer at the Florida State University Police Department in 1991. While at FSUPD Chief Brown has served as a patrol officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief and now Chief. Chief Brown is the first female to be selected as Chief of Police for the FSU Police Department. Chief Brown also serves as a Board member for the Refuge House. Chief Brown is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Class 257. Chief Brown supervised the Training Unit for approximately 15 years before being promoted to Captain. During her tenure at FSUPD Chief Brown has been a Field Training officer, Crisis Management Member, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Taser Instructor, as well as several additional areas of high liability instruction. Before being promoted to Chief, she supervised the criminal investigations unit where she was in charge of several high profile cases. Over the years Chief Brown has served on several sexual assault panels in an effort to address assaults on and off campus. Chief Brown also teaches Campus Victimization for the Attorney General’s Office. The course discusses a range of victimizations, such as mass violence and hazing, as well as stalking and sexual assault. Chief Brown has taught women’s self-defense across the United States and is known for her commitment to train women how to defend themselves against an assault.

Safety means keeping yourself and others free from harm or danger. The first step is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Don't be afraid to communicate your boundaries when people get too close in your personal space if it makes you feel vulnerable. Use a powerful tone and tell someone to back off or get out of your space. Use powerful body language to communicate non-verbally that you are strong and confident and have no time for nonsense. Head up, shoulders back and make eye contact with all people. Science shows that "gut feelings" are biological tools to keep us safe. That's why it's important to use them. In order for someone to physically hurt you, they must get close to you. I recommend that if you feel unsafe or uneasy around a person, don't allow them to isolate you.

Safe Ride Share tips –

• Verify the driver and the vehicle and check the driver’s rating.
• If someone orders you the rideshare have them stay with you until pick-up.
• Keep friends and family in the loop with the app.
• Avoid sitting in the front seat if possible.
• Avoid riding alone when possible.
• Be mindful of your intoxication.
• Keep expensive items hidden and keep your things close.
• Avoid giving too much personal information to the driver.
• Never enter with someone else in the passenger seat.

These are just a few of the safety tips I use every day. I encourage everyone to use these tips as they are out and about. Be prepared and be aware!