Sgt. Krystle Manning of the Arkansas Tech University Department of Public Safety received the 2025 Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police (AACP) Servant’s Heart Award during the AACP’s 57th annual conference Sept. 23-25 in Hot Springs.
Manning joined the ATU Department of Public Safety in 2019 after beginning her law enforcement career with the Pope County Detention Center.
“Eight years ago, I decided to shift careers and walk down a path I was a little intimidated by,” said Manning. “I love my calling. My job is so much more than a job. It’s a purpose.”
Manning, who specializes in training and community outreach in the ATU Department of Public Safety, holds an associate degree from Arkansas Tech. She is currently pursuing ATU’s Bachelor of Arts degree in organizational leadership and its Master of Arts degree in organizational leadership and learning. Manning recently completed the coursework necessary to become a certified law enforcement chaplain.
In 2024, she became the initial recipient of the ATU Community Service Award presented by ATU Staff Senate.
Manning was nominated for the AACP Servant’s Heard Award by Capt. Tammy Dougan, assistant chief in the ATU Department of Public Safety.
“Known affectionately by students and staff as ‘Officer Mom,’ Sergeant Manning is the embodiment of compassionate policing and servant leadership in a campus community she has devoted herself to with unwavering dedication,” wrote Dougan as part of the nomination. “Sergeant Manning’s impact on the ATU campus goes far beyond the traditional scope of law enforcement. She is a trusted mentor, protector, advocate and friend to thousands of students, many of whom are away from home for the first time. Her natural ability to connect with young people has earned her a reputation not just as an officer, but as a role model and source of strength. She frequently takes phone calls from students seeking advice, encouragement or simply a safe place to be heard.”
Dougan went on to share that Manning has increased the ATU Department of Public Safety’s social media following by 300 percent during her time on staff.
“Through these efforts,” wrote Dougan, “(Manning) has made the department more approachable and visible, building trust between officers and the community they serve. Despite the many hats she wears, Sergeant Manning approaches each task with humility, grace and a deep sense of purpose. She leads by example, often first to arrive, the last to leave and always the first to ask what she can do to help. She never seeks recognition for her service, but she deserves it nonetheless. Sergeant Manning’s selfless contributions, tireless commitment and heartfelt connections with others make her a shining example of what the Servant’s Heart Award represents.”
Learn more about the ATU Department of Public Safety at www.atu.edu/psafe.
