Opal D. Haley, who has served as interim director of UGA’s Office of Security Preparedness since Feb. 14, has been named its permanent director.
Her appointment, effective July 1, was announced by George Stafford, associate vice president for finance and administration. The office is part of UGA’s auxiliary and administrative services, which Stafford oversees.
Haley was director of training and development in UGA’s human resources division before becoming interim director of security preparedness. She has worked at UGA for 20 years, including 18 in the training and development department.
UGA officials created the Office of Security Preparedness in 2002 following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. It is not a law enforcement unit but works to help the university identify possible security threats and provide faculty, staff and students with information and education on security issues.
“Opal has done an outstanding job as interim director, particularly in strengthening the university’s working relationships with state and local agencies involved in security issues,” says Stafford. “She also provides valuable guidance on human resources matters for auxiliary and administrative services. We are pleased that she will continue to use her expertise and skills in this important leadership role.”
Haley graduated from UGA with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in human resources and organizational development.
Before joining UGA, she worked for the Clarke County police department and the Georgia Department of Revenue.