Deputy Chief Ken Rahn will serve as Southern’s next chief of police, effective March 5, 2026, bringing more than three decades of law enforcement leadership to the role.
The appointment follows the retirement of Chief Makiem Miller, whose service to the university is deeply appreciated as he concludes his tenure leading the department.
Since joining the University Police Department in 2019, Rahn has overseen essential operational functions and played a key role in maintaining the department’s day-to-day effectiveness and long-term planning, including prior service as Southern’s interim chief from 2022 to 2024.
Before coming to Southern, Rahn spent 25 years with the Milford Police Department, where he served as a patrol officer, K-9 handler, detective, and administrative supervisor. He concluded his tenure there as deputy chief, acting as second-in-command for five years. He is also a graduate of the 274th session of the FBI National Academy, a nationally recognized leadership program for senior law enforcement officials.
Colleagues note Rahn’s steady leadership style, deep operational knowledge, and strong partnerships with regional public safety agencies as hallmarks of his approach. His familiarity with Southern’s campus community and commitment to collaborative, community-focused policing position him to lead the department into its next chapter.
Click here to learn more about Southern’s police department.
