A Columbia International University security officer is commended for “exhibiting exceptional courage” when he protected a woman and her children from aggressive dogs that had strayed on to the campus.

Lt. Leon Roden was honored by Security Chief Scott Deal with CIU’s first ever “Law Enforcement Act of Valor” during an October Chapel service.

Deal says Roden’s act of valor came during the summer break when a CIU alumna, who was walking on campus with her two young daughters, were confronted by three growling dogs.

“While realizing the serious threat to his own safety, Lt. Roden risked that safety and placed himself between the dogs … and (the woman) and her children,” Deal said.

Deal says Roden then helped the family escape to a safe place, eventually taking “evasive action to protect himself” as the dogs ran away into a wooded area and have not been seen since.

A commendation read by Deal states:

“An act of valor is considered to be above and beyond the call of duty; and exhibiting exceptional courage, extraordinary decisiveness and presence of mind along with unusual swiftness of action, regardless of his or her personal safety, in an attempt to save or protect human life.”

Deal explained to the student body that he was making the presentation in Chapel “so you can see the kind of security officers we have and the lengths they will go to protect people on this campus.”

When it comes to college campus security, CIU ranks among the best in the nation in rankings published by WalletHub.

With record enrollment for five straight years, CIU consistently ranks among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a Best Value Regional University in the South. Request information on enrollment at CIU and Columbia Biblical Seminary or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024.