Lieutenant Wesley Neely has joined Trevecca’s Campus Security team as the director of security, officials announced.
Neely retired from the Mt. Juliet Police Department in December 2024 after spending more than 35 years in public safety. He has held key leadership roles in patrol, K-9 operations, investigations and training and development. A certified firearms and tactical instructor, Neely has trained officers in active shooter response, critical asset risk management and overall best practices. Neely is also a Tennessee Army National Guard veteran.
“We are excited to welcome Lieutenant Neely to campus,” said Dykes. “He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge and we feel certain will be an asset to our campus security team.”
In 2018, Neely founded Security Assessment Facility Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) LLC, a consulting firm specializing in risk assessments for businesses and other organizations. In the community, Neely is committed to supporting fellow veterans and first responders through his involvement with the Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project and Crossroads Mission Care.
As security director, Neely fills a role held for the past eight years by Greg Dawson, who is taking a step back to spend more time with his family. Dawson will remain with the security team as a first-shift officer with a major focus on training other team members.
“Greg has been a valued member of our campus security team for more than 20 years,” said Vice President Jessica Dykes, Trevecca’s dean of student development. “He has worked tirelessly to keep our campus community safe, and we are incredibly grateful for his continued contributions and dedication.”