St. Mary’s College of Maryland is being recognized nationally for rethinking campus public safety, as Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety Felix Martinez, Ed.D., has been selected to receive the 2026 International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA) Award for Innovations in Community-Oriented Policing.
The award honors leaders who are advancing new approaches to building trust, engagement, and safety within their communities.
Under Martinez’s leadership, the College’s Office of Public Safety has shifted its approach beyond traditional enforcement, focusing on relationship-building, accessibility, and meaningful engagement with students, families, and the broader community.
“Dr. Martinez’s leadership reflects the very best of St. Mary’s College of Maryland—thoughtful, engaged, and deeply committed to community,” said President Rhonda Phillips. “His work demonstrates that public safety is not only about protection, but about building trust, fostering connection, and creating an environment where every member of our community feels seen, supported, and valued.”
Among the most notable initiatives is “Beyond the Fade,” which includes the “Barbershop Talk” series—creating culturally responsive spaces for open dialogue between students, campus leadership, and public safety professionals. Due to its success, the initiative is now expanding across the state of Maryland with support from the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
Martinez also launched “Walk in Her Shoes,” a campus-wide initiative that raises awareness about gender-based violence and fosters dialogue around safety, respect, and accountability.
Beyond these programs, Martinez maintains a visible presence across campus, actively engaging with student organizations, participating in campus events, and building relationships with families and the surrounding community.
The award will be presented at the IACLEA Annual Conference Leadership Awards & Installation Gala on June 27, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.
The IACLEA represents campus public safety leaders worldwide and recognizes excellence in leadership, innovation, and service in higher education public safety.
