COMMUNICATOR
March 9, 2025

Knights in the News | March 2025

Brian Mitchell
The Poway (California) Fire Department has appointed Brian Mitchell as the new deputy fire chief. He is a veteran firefighter and paramedic, beginning his career with the Los Angeles Fire Department at the age of 19. “I’m entrusted with the trust and safety of firefighters, and I take that seriously,” he said. “I’ll also look out for the health and welfare of the community.” Mitchell received a bachelor’s degree in fire administration from CSU.

Charles Obierika
Charles Obierika was recognized in Marquis Who’s Who. He is currently the senior supervisor for the city of Atlanta and is a distinguished professional in public safety with a career spanning over 25 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from CSU.

Jason Main
Jason Main was appointed as the new director of Veterans Services for the city of Leominster, Massachusetts. He also serves as the president of the Massachusetts Veterans Service Officers Association. “I have to say I love first and foremost the veterans I have the honor of serving and I also love the city and how much it embraces their veterans and myself,” he said. “I have an amazing staff and support that is needed to ensure Leominster has the best veteran services in the state.” He is a 2014 CSU graduate.

Baraka Carter
The Redwood City (California) Fire Department has appointed Baraka Carter to fire chief. Carter brings over 25 years of experience in fire services and is also a certified chief fire officer, a hazardous materials specialist and a type 1 incident commander. “I’m truly humbled and honored to have the opportunity to serve as the fire chief,” he said. He is currently pursing a bachelor’s degree in fire administration from CSU.

Danelle Musil
Danelle Musil is currently forming a first-of-its-kind peer support group and an overall wellness program at the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio for correctional officers. “It’s becoming more evident the tough job that correctional officers have,” she said. “Whether it’s tips to reduce stress and anxiety, I bring to them focus on wellness. Not only mental, but also physical, emotional, community, everything.” She is a 2013 CSU graduate.

Matthew Baird
The (Florida) Citrus County Sherrif’s Office has appointed Lieutenant Matthew Baird to the rank of captain. He will assume leadership of the Criminal Investigations division, overseeing a wide scope of units crucial to the agency’s investigative efforts. He received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from CSU.

Brett Nash
The Pullman (Washington) Fire Department has announced the appointment of Brett Nash as the new fire chief. He brings 30 years of experience to the role, including the management of seven fire stations in a department with over 300 members. “I am humbled by the support I’ve received from the city, the fire department and the Pullman community,” he said. “I’m so proud to be a part of this organization. I look forward to getting to work.” Nash holds a bachelor’s degree in fire administration from CSU.

Paul Trouard
Interim Police Chief Paul Trouard has been appointed the permanent position with the Lafayette (Louisiana) Police Department. He is a 27-year veteran of law enforcement and a graduate of the FBI National Academy. He received a master’s degree in organizational leadership from CSU.

Charles Burdine
Charles “Ty” Burdine has been appointed as the new police chief with the Clarksville Police Department in Tennessee and brings 27 years of experience to the position. “I am humbled and honored to have been selected as the next chief of police,” he said, “I am excited to continue to build upon the legacy of exceptional leadership of Chief David Crockarell and former Chief Al Ansley.” He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from CSU.

Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

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