Skip to main content

Bellows appointed director of campus security and safety

Chad Johnson | 

Darrin Bellows has been named Lipscomb University’s director of campus security and safety, Scott McDowell, senior vice president for student life, recently announced.

Darrin BellowsBellows joined Lipscomb’s campus security and safety force in 2012 upon retiring from the United States Marine Corps after 23 years of service, where he led deployable teams of Marines and civilians in stateside and international military projects and was responsible for the planning, professional collaboration, facilitation, implementation and control measures to achieve mission success.

"As a retired U.S. Marine, Darrin embodies the philosophy of going the second mile,” said McDowell. “While he possesses phenomenal leadership skills and has a rich understanding of what authentic servant leadership is all about, his most impressive quality may well be his genuine heart for our students. I know that he will do whatever it takes to provide a safe, secure and pleasant experience for every Lipscomb community member and guest who visits our campus."

As director of campus security and safety, he leads a team of professionals working 24/7/365 to maintain a safe and secure environment on the university campus and the two academy campuses, for students, faculty, staff and guests. Bellows also partners with the office of risk management to lead a number of campus-wide emergency preparedness exercises, risk-reducing education and support programs.

Bellows credits his military and prior Lipscomb service with preparing him for this role.

“Since arriving on campus in July 2012, I have been inspired and encouraged by what is going on here at Lipscomb,” said Bellows. “I have had the great experience of working with wonderful Christian men and women that dedicate so much to the cause of preparing students for purposeful, Spirit-filled and Christ-focused lives. I am amazed on a daily basis by the students; their youthful exuberance, love for life, each other and God that is tempered with a drive and focus that is impressive and reassuring. I am honored and humbled to be entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the wellbeing of the Lipscomb family.”

Bellows said his primary goal as director is building on the high standard of excellence that has become synonymous with Lipscomb’s safety and security department—to provide a safe and secure environment, while ensuring that everyone who steps on campus has a pleasant experience.

A graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, Bellows has a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture business. He also maintains several state and individual training certifications in private protective armed security, baton tactics, chemical defense and self-defense.

Bellows began his new appointment March 1. He succeeds Jim Humphrey, who served as Lipscomb’s director of campus security and safety as well as director of veterans services.