The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) is proud to announce the appointment of Gary Bell as the newest National Director on our Board of Directors. With more than two decades of service in corrections and a career defined by leadership, innovation, and commitment to others, Gary brings a wealth of experience that will further strengthen our mission of Taking Care of Our Own.
Gary Bell has dedicated over 23 years to the Georgia Department of Corrections, beginning his career in 2002 as a Correctional Officer at Burruss Correctional Training Center. At the same time, he served his country as an Infantryman in the Georgia Army National Guard, completing a combat tour in Iraq in 2005. His dual service reflects a lifelong commitment to both his profession and his nation.
After earning his bachelor’s degree, Gary transitioned into a Probation Officer role within the Towaliga Judicial Circuit, where he quickly distinguished himself as a leader. He became an integral part of the Probation Tactical Team, rising through the ranks to serve as both Assistant Commander and Commander for the Central Region. His leadership during this time demonstrated not only operational excellence but a deep understanding of teamwork, accountability, and service.
In 2012, Gary was promoted to a headquarters role, where he managed statewide initiatives and projects for both the Probation and Facility Divisions. Among his many accomplishments was his work in developing Veterans Dorms within Georgia prisons—an initiative that led to his involvement as a founding member of the National Institute of Corrections Justice Involved Veterans Network. His ability to identify needs and build programs that serve those within the system highlights his forward-thinking approach to corrections.
Gary has also played a significant role in honoring the profession. In 2015, he helped establish and manage the agency’s Statewide Honor Guard Team, further demonstrating his commitment to recognizing the service and sacrifice of correctional professionals. Today, he serves as Superintendent of State Offices South at Tift College, where he oversees the Communications Center, Emergency Management operations, and the Statewide Honor Guard Team for the Georgia Department of Corrections.
His professional qualifications are extensive. Gary is a POST Instructor, Senior Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Emergency Medical Instructor, and Hostage Negotiator. He has completed numerous advanced training programs, including the Correctional Leadership Institute, Wardens and Chiefs Pre-Command, and Special Operations Basic. He is also a Certified Emergency Manager through GEMA and holds associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice, as well as a Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration from the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College.
Gary has been an active member of CPOF since 2015 and attended his first PROJECT 2000 in 2016. It was there that he experienced firsthand the impact of the Foundation’s work, solidifying his commitment to support correctional staff and their families in any way possible. His passion for the mission, combined with his extensive background, makes him an invaluable addition to the Board.
As Gary steps into his role as National Director, he carries with him a guiding principle from the late Mrs. Rose Williams: “May the work I’ve done speak for me.” It is a philosophy that aligns seamlessly with the values of CPOF and the service-driven spirit of the correctional profession.
We are honored to welcome Gary Bell to the CPOF Board of Directors and look forward to the leadership, insight, and dedication he will bring in service to correctional professionals and their families nationwide.