Chief Barfuss to Leave USU Police

Due to recent family health issues, USU Police Chief Blair Barfuss announced he will leave the university this month. His last day will be Feb. 17, 2023.

“I am sad to leave just as I began seeing significant positive changes made by everyone in our department,” said Chief Barfuss. “I cannot speak more highly of our officers, the university administration, staff, faculty, and our Aggie community. I love Utah State University, and I will greatly miss being here.”

Barfuss joined USU Police in July 2022 after a national search. Previously, Barfuss had served as chief of police and director of public safety at Utah Tech University (previously Dixie State University) for four years. He holds a master’s degree in human resources from the Huntsman School of Business at USU and is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy. He has more than 20 years of experience in public safety and service in Utah.

“While Blair was only able to be at Utah State for a short time, his extensive experience and expertise have benefited all members of the USU community,” said Mike Kuehn, executive director of USU’s public safety department. “He set us up for success, and we’ll be looking for many of the same qualities in the next person to fill this role. We wish him the best as he tends to the needs of his family.”

Captain Kent Harris will act as interim chief during a national search, which will begin in the coming weeks. Harris has more than 30 years of police experience and has been a member of the USU Police Department for the past 13 years. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from USU.