April 6 was a big day for Wayne Thomason, as he was named the new department head for the criminal justice department.

Thomason feels he is ready for this new position after spending 35 years in law enforcement and training. He had previously worked as a police officer for Webster Groves, Mo. in St. Louis County and as an assistant professor for the Law Enforcement Training Institute at the University of Missouri.

“I have a vast amount of experience being in law enforcement for so long and a strong background of leadership in administration, and I think that will show as I take on this new job,” Thomason said.

Prior to becoming department head at Southern, he held the title of assistant professor of criminal justice administration and director of the law enforcement academy.

He will still teach the same classes as he had before.

As department head, Thomason is responsible for overseeing the entire criminal justice department, which he breaks down into three categories: first, the academic program, which offers associates and bachelors degrees; second, the state certified law enforcement academy and third, the continuing education classes that are offered all over the state.

Thomason said he is grateful for this opportunity and will do everything he can to support and help the program.

“The criminal justice program here at Southern is recognized as one of the best in the state and nation and I am committed to keeping this program in leadership position,” Thomason said.

Thomason was named new head of the department after previous head Dr. Blake Wolf stepped down. Wolf could not be reached for comment.