Mary Young

Mary Young has been in Law Enforcement for approximately 23 years and values each day as an opportunity for growth. She became the Chief of Police at Texas Southern University (TSU) in March of 2017, after retiring with 20 years of service from the Houston Police Department. Being the first female chief to head TSU police department, she is a true advocate for females that work hard but are often overlooked. She makes it a priority to uplift and encourage young women and adults both locally and nationwide. Her favorite spiritual scripture that continues to shape her well-being is: “To Whom much is given, much is required!” Prior to being appointed as the Chief of Police, Mary taught Administration of Justice classes as an Adjunct Professor for over 12 years at various institutions including, Texas Southern University, Houston Community College and the University of Phoenix, respectively. She is described as a dynamic leader, class act innovator and a friend to a friend. The honorable Mayor Sylvester Turner has deemed March 22nd as MARY YOUNG day in the City of Houston. A day she celebrates with friends and family as a day, of “Remembering our Purpose”

Over 20 years ago, she created her signature community event, Shop with a Cop and Shop with a Jock. A shopping spree where professional athletes from various sports are paired with local, state and federal police officers to help shop with kids that reside in under-served communities. The program is in its 22nd year and growing stronger. She is also instrumental in establishing programs and events at Texas Southern University such as: Latte with Law Enforcement, Chit Chat with the Chief and Heart 2 Heart.

In addition to her outstanding law enforcement and community service vocation, she holds membership in several organizations including but not limited to: National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated., International Association of Chiefs of Police, Lifetime Member of the African American Police Officers League, 2018 recipient of Who’s Who in Black Houston, National Association of Women in Leadership, Houston Police Retired Officers Association, Greater Houston Area Police Chiefs, Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), Texas Police Chiefs Association, Texas Association of College and University Police Chiefs, and currently hold an executive seat on the board for Historically Black Colleges and University-Law Enforcement Administrators. Mary has been awarded several leadership, community and professional awards both locally and nationally. She earned her B.S. from Prairie View A & M University in law enforcement with a minor in radio/television communication. She was awarded a fellowship to complete her Master of Science degree in Criminology/Sociology and have numerous post graduate classes and certificates for her doctoral studies in teacher leadership and criminal justice. Mary has a recent college graduate who is pursuing her dreams of being a civil rights attorney. Her daughter, Maia is featured in the popular social media tabloid, “Now this News”. She and her former college roommate and friend, Jayla Allen are strong advocates expressing the right to have voting polls on college campuses, where all students can exercise their right to vote. Aside from being a full time Mom and holding a full-time job, Mary enjoys traveling and taking full advantage of what life offers, HAPPINESS!