SSU faculty, staff, students, community leaders, and regional law enforcement representatives gathered to welcome the new chief, who brings to the campus more than three decades of distinguished law enforcement experience with the Savannah Police Department (SPD).
“Tiger Nation, I thank you for allowing me to give you what I have given to the community for 34 years and for the opportunity to continue to serve,” Garvin told the audience gathered in the Student Union ballroom on the SSU campus. “I’m humble enough to realize the responsibility that has been given to me and the responsibility that I have taken to make sure that when you see me, you see someone who stands on principle. My goal is to foster an environment grounded in transparency, trust, and proactive engagement—ensuring that every member of the Tiger community feels safe, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
At the SPD, Chief Garvin served most recently as Captain of the Criminal Investigations Division, where he led complex investigative operations and strategic enforcement efforts. Over the course of his tenure, he held numerous leadership roles, including Precinct Commander, and key positions within the Crime Suppression Unit, Recruiting Unit, Special Investigations Section, and the Violent Crimes Task Force.
“We are excited to officially welcome Chief Garvin to the Savannah State University family,” said Samantha Hutchinson, Vice President of Business and Finance. “His depth of experience, proven leadership, and longstanding commitment to the Savannah community make him exceptionally well-suited for this role. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Interim Chief Sydney Thomas for her steady leadership and dedicated service during this important period of transition.”
Garvin leads the Savannah State Police Department after succeeding Interim Chief Sydney Thomas, who served in the role since December 2025.
A Savannah native and graduate of Benedictine Military School, Garvin is a graduate of Leadership Savannah and the International Association of Chiefs of Police Leadership in Police Organizations Course. He is a member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the Georgia Chiefs of Police Association. An ordained deacon in the Catholic faith, he holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from St. Leo University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in theology from the same institution.
