MSU DPPS announces Akin Bryant as new Deputy Chief of Police Services Bureau

August 15, 2023

EAST LANSING, Mich. --- The Michigan State University Department of Police and Public Safety (MSU DPPS) is excited to announce Akin Bryant as the new Deputy Chief of the Police Services Bureau. In this position, Bryant will oversee all police operations, directly supervise the Division Captains, and serve as the acting Chief of Police when necessary. Bryant will directly report to Chief of Police Chris Rozman. 

"Akin brings years of experience to our department, and I am thrilled to have him serve as our Deputy Chief,” said Rozman. “We look forward to working as a team to collectively move forward and passionately serve the Spartan community with both professionalism and integrity.” 

Bryant began with MSU DPPS in June 2022 as an Inspector in the Security Services Division. He started his career as a Public Safety Officer with the University of Michigan in 2001, becoming a Police Officer in 2003.  

Bryant spent 21 years with the University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security, attaining the rank of Executive Lieutenant. Within his last five years at the university, he led its Protective Security Section, including the executive protection team, special event unit, strategic intelligence unit, and drone operations. 

Bryant obtained his Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety from Sienna Heights University and a Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management from Eastern Michigan University. He is a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University School of Police Staff and Command and the FBI National Academy Session #273.   

“I am honored to serve our community alongside the many professionals at the Michigan State University Department of Police and Public Safety,” said Bryant. “I’m thankful for the continued support of my family, friends, and co-workers throughout this journey.” 

In addition to his accomplishments above, Bryant maintains certifications as a Counter Terrorism Practitioner (CCTP), Sports Safety Practitioner (CSSP), and holds a Professional Emergency Manager (PEM) certificate. He is also an Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response (ALERRT) Level 1 and 2 instructor and a police motorcycle instructor. 

Bryant began in his new role on Aug. 1, 2023. If you would like to congratulate him, you can send him an email at BryantA@dpps.msu.edu. 

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Media Contact: 

Dana Whyte, Communications Manager and Spokesperson, Michigan State University Department of Police and Public Safety 

517-282-3711 | WhyteD@dpps.msu.edu