Fountain Walker (David Boraks/DavidsonNews.net)

Davidson College is searching for a new public safety director after the surprise departure last month of Fountain Walker, who had held the job for the past seven years. Mr. Walker told DavidsonNews.net he’s leaving to pursue new career opportunities beyond North Carolina.

Ronnie Hersey

Mr. Walker’s departure was announced internally several weeks ago, according to college employees who received email memos. A college spokeswoman confirmed that the college is looking for a new police chief, but declined to discuss the situation further, saying that the college does not announce employee departures.

Capt. Ronnie Hersey was appointed acting director of public safety while the college searches for a new chief. He had been Mr. Walker’s second in command.

TIME TO LEAVE

Mr. Walker, 41, told DavidsonNews.net that he had stepped down as of June 1. He said he has interviewed for policing jobs in Chicago and Richmond, Va.

Fountain Walker (David Boraks/DavidsonNews.net)

“Davidson is beautiful, the most fantastic place, full of wonderful caring people,” he said. “This is an opportunity for me to grow professionally.”

A former U.S. Marine, Mr. Walker was hired at Davidson in 2003 after several years as a police officer in Cornelius. He quickly became a popular figure on and off campus, winning a loyal following among the student body and appearing frequently at student events and even in student-produced videos. One campus fraternity, Kappa Sigma, even got permission to induct him as a member several years ago.

He has served on a wide variety of community boards and committees in recent years, including the Lake Norman Community Development Council, the Lake Norman YMCA Community Outreach Campaign, Ada Jenkins Center, Boys and Girls Clubs, North Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers and Mecklenburg Parks & Recreation north advisory board.

He ran for Davidson Town Board in 2007, missing election by 45 votes. He also entered the 2009 race, but later withdrew, citing work and family responsibilities.

In summer 2009, he played the role of Officer Krupke in the Davidson Community Players’ production of “West Side Story.” He also took part in student performances and appeared in episodes of “The Davidson Show” and other student videos.

Mr. Walker said he is sorry to be leaving and especially will miss working with students. “Where can a police chief say he was in a couple of plays, a dance … the chance to interact with the students was incredible,” he said.

His mid-summer departure means he will not have a chance to lead the annual safety session at this fall’s freshman orientation – one of his favorite activities of the year, he said. Asked what he would say if he had a chance to say goodbye to students, he replied: “Always remember your fellow human spirits.”

He invites friends and contacts to stay in touch, by looking for him on Facebook.

“I consider this place family and will not lose connection,” he said.