Williams to retire as chief of Maine State Police

Col. Robert Williams, China resident and chief of the Maine State Police

China resident accepts position as director of security at Colby College, in Waterville

Robert A. Williams, of China, head of the Maine State Police for the past seven years, has been named director of security at Colby College. His appointment follows an extensive national search. In his 33 years in law enforcement, Williams rose through the ranks, from trooper to ultimately being nominated by Governor Paul LePage to become colonel in 2011. Williams comes to Colby with extensive experience in emergency response planning, personnel management, and organizational development. He begins his work at Colby March 12.

“At a time when the security issues facing colleges and universities are increasingly complex, having a seasoned leader with experience in every aspect of protecting our communities will position Colby for continued strength,” said Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer Doug Terp. “Bob also demonstrates a keen ability to build relationships, which is an important element of this role. We look forward to welcoming him to Colby.”

Williams began his career in law enforcement in 1983 as a trooper for the Pittsfield Police Department. He later became a state trooper in Skowhegan, for 11 years, before rising to the position of sergeant. In 1998 he became lieutenant in the communications unit, and in 2000 he rose to major, overseeing nine units. In 2007 Williams was named lieutenant colonel. His professional development experience includes crowd control and event security, team building and ethics, and extensive leadership training.

“As a native of central Maine, I have watched Colby continue to rise,” said Williams. “I am drawn to Colby’s commitment to excellence, something that I have continually worked toward as a member of the Maine State Police. After a full career in law enforcement, I am excited about the opportunity to interact with a whole new community.”

A graduate of University of Maine, Augusta, Williams earned a master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Husson University, in Bangor. He also attended the FBI National Academy, in Quantico, Virginia. He is a longtime member of the Vassalboro Fire Department, where he has served on the board of directors since 1992.

At Colby, Williams will lead a staff of 40 employees and will manage and administer safety programming, facility security, compliance, training, emergency preparedness, and critical incident management. He will work collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and other constituents to promote a safe and secure environment.

A resident of China, Maine, Williams and his wife, Joyce, are the parents of two adult daughters with careers in healthcare.