Doug Doan is an officer at the Anderson University Police Department. Before he was on the force, he worked as a correctional officer and a jailor. Doan enjoys being able to act as both a servant of God and as a protector and law enforcer.
Where did you work before coming to AU? How did you get this job?
Right out of college I worked as a correctional officer with the Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility for a year before moving on to Madison County Jail as a jailor. I was then promoted to corporal. I also worked for a few years at the University of Indianapolis as a police officer.
I came to AUPD after working as a student security officer while in college. That’s actually how I decided on a double major in Christian ministries and criminal justice. When a position opened up, I knew I had to apply. I really have a passion for this university and its people.
Why did you decide to become a police officer?
Honestly, it just happened. In college I chose to double major in Christian ministries and criminal justice. I’ve always had a heart for helping people, and as life unfolded, I realized how much I love helping people in this capacity and environment. It was a path I didn’t think I would choose to take, but rather one God has taken me on. Just letting Him guide me brought me here.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy meeting and interacting with people. Often in my job, I see people in their worst moments and it’s an honor to be a calm presence in tense situations and a comfort in times of fear and grief. I take “protect” and “serve” very seriously and I see my role as a protector but also a servant leader.
What is one of the craziest stories you’ve had during your time as an officer on campus?
One night, I responded to a “shots fired” call across the street from Tara East. When I arrived, the victim had been shot twice with two bullet holes in his back. It’s crazy to think that kind of stuff can happen so close to campus, but really it can happen anywhere, and this is why our police department and officers are so important to campus.
What do you do to relax after a long day of protecting and serving the AU community?
The first thing I do is go to bed. My main ways to decompress are spending time with my wife and boys and coaching my kids’ baseball team and watching sports.
Is there any advice you would give to future police officers?
Start out in a correctional environment so you can get used to people yelling at you, calling you names and being disrespectful. That’s where I learned to stay calm in difficult situations, especially as I’m being attacked verbally and physically. Second, get in shape and stay in shape. It is important to learn how to take care of your body. Don’t wait until you’re in the Police Academy before doing this, and don’t stop after you’ve been hired on at a department. With that being said, make sure you learn hand-to-hand combat skills. Finally, learning how to talk to people and how to communicate effectively with a diverse population is highly beneficial. In any work situation, make good connections and build relationships with the people you work with.
The Andersonian wishes a special thanks to Officer Doan and other members of AUPD for their service to our community. To contact AUPD call (765) 641-3333.