Mark Iwasa was selected by Sacramento State to be the next chief of the University Police and director of Public Safety. He will begin his new role starting Jan. 3.

Iwasa, 49, is a Sac State alumnus with more than 25 years of experience at the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department. He graduated from the university in 1993 with a master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration, and in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in economics with a minor in criminal justice.

Having served as undersheriff for Sac State’s University Police, Iwasa decided to become a candidate for Sac State’s new chief of University Police. Iwasa lives just walking distance from the Sac State campus.

Iwasa will be taking over for Interim University Chief of Police Ken Barnett, who replaced Daniel Davis who retired in November.

“He is a seasoned officer with demonstrated knowledge, experience and skills in federal and California statutory code, case law, civil law and standards that govern the operation of California law enforcement,” said Interim University Vice President Mike Lee in a press release.

Iwasa said in a release he describes himself as a “fix-it” type of personality with a deliberate leadership style who enjoys input and collaboration from his peers.

The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department will promote Capt. Rick Book, 48, to take over Iwasa’s former role as undersheriff, said Sheriff’s Department spokesman Jason Ramos in a press release.