Learn more about Jim
Hickerson, a 1978 Hanover graduate, returned to his alma mater as director of campus safety in 2011 after a 33-year career with the Indiana State Police. During his tenure with the police force, he gained a wealth of experience – and the respect of his peers – after ascending from trooper to squad sergeant, assistant district commander and, ultimately, district commander.
Hickerson has close-knit relationships with all facets of local and area law enforcement. During his lengthy police career, his connection with generations of officers stemmed through varied experiences beyond the apprehension of criminals, including roles as an instructor at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, squad leader for a tactical intervention platoon, defensive tactics instructor and as a witness for criminal and traffic cases.
In addition, he worked numerous large-scale events, accident, disaster and crime scenes. He was also a crime and accident investigator, assisted the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board with the investigation of aircraft accidents and coordinated Secret Service protection for U.S. presidents visiting the region.
Along with having his eyes on the Hanover campus, he continues to receive contemporary training in an array of areas ranging from the autism spectrum, human trafficking and sexual harassment to weapons of mass-destruction and mass-fatality incidents.
Prior to coming to Hanover, he participated in a high level of industry and community involvement through service to organizations such as the Clark County (Ind.) Youth Coalition, Southern Indiana Triad Advisory Board, Louisville Athletic Club, Ivy Tech Criminal Justice Advisory Board, Henryville Correctional Institute Community Advisory Board and Freeway Incident Management Group.
Hickerson, a native of Jeffersonville, Ind., studied sociology at Hanover. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity and also competed as a four-year member of the College’s football team and track and field squad. He later graduated from the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville.
Education
B.A. in sociology, Hanover College, 1978
