Cotulla Education Appoints Chief David L. Perry (Ret.) as Director of Safety and Security

Nationally recognized campus safety expert joins to lead enterprise-wide physical security initiative across 21 campuses

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cotulla Education today announced the appointment of Chief David L. Perry (Ret.) as Director of Safety and Security. In this newly established role, Chief Perry will lead the company's comprehensive physical security program across all 21 campuses spanning four workforce education brands: Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM), Tidewater Tech, Centura College, and American Lineman College.

Chief Perry brings nearly 30 years of law enforcement and campus public safety experience to Cotulla Education, having served in senior leadership roles at Florida State University, the University of North Carolina, and Clemson University. He is a contributor to the Final Report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing, and currently serves as Program Lead for Safer Together, a national law enforcement safety and wellness strategy developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice and Bureau of Justice Assistance.

"Campus safety is foundational to our mission," said Jason Pfaff, CEO of Cotulla Education. "David brings an extraordinary depth of experience, and his national perspective on campus public safety makes him exactly the right person to lead this work. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team."

Chief Perry's appointment follows his role as the lead consultant on Cotulla Education's structured safety assessment initiative, which is currently underway across all 21 campuses. His transition from external advisor to internal director reflects the company's commitment to embedding safety expertise at the leadership level.

"I am honored to join Cotulla Education at such an important moment," said Chief Perry. "The investment this organization is making in the safety and well-being of its students and staff is genuine, and I look forward to building something lasting."

Chief Perry holds a Master of Public Administration from Albany State University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Albany State College. He is certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training to provide credit-earning instruction in all 50 states.

About Cotulla Education

Cotulla Education is a premier network of career-focused institutions dedicated to preparing students for success in skilled trades and technical professions. Through its family of schools—including the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM), Centura College, and Tidewater Tech—Cotulla Education delivers hands-on, industry-driven training that meets the growing demand for highly skilled professionals. With campuses across the United States, Cotulla provides students with pathways to rewarding careers in aviation, healthcare, information technology, business, and skilled trades, empowering graduates to fill vital roles in today’s workforce.