Dr. Glover is a distinguished leader in law enforcement, education, and public service. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, he made history on April 11, 1995, as the first African American Sheriff in Florida in over 100 years and the first in Jacksonville history. He served two terms before retiring in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of progressive policing and community engagement. His law enforcement career began in 1966 with the Jacksonville Police Department, where he rose through the ranks, serving as an investigator, Sergeant, Chief of Services, and Director of Police Services. His leadership extended beyond law enforcement, as he played a key role in police hostage negotiations and criminal justice reform.
Dr. Glover’s commitment to education has been a defining aspect of his career. A proud alumnus of Edward Waters College, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Science before obtaining a master’s in education from the University of North Florida. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and Leadership Jacksonville. His dedication to academic excellence led him to serve as a special advisor to the University of North Florida, where he focused on college recruitment and dropout prevention. In 2010, he became the 29th President of Edward Waters College, a role he held for eight years, significantly impacting the institution’s growth and reputation. Under his leadership, he was twice nominated for Best Male HBCU President of the Year.
Throughout his career, Dr. Glover has been recognized with numerous accolades for his leadership and contributions to the community. He received the FBI Directors Community Leadership Award for his efforts in crime prevention and community engagement. Other honors include the Liberty Bell Award from the Jacksonville Bar Association, the Law and Spirituality Award from the Catholic Lawyers Guild, and the Jacksonville NAACPC’s Sallye B. Mathis Award. In 2016, he was awarded the prestigious Great Floridian Award by Governor Rick Scott, and in 2021, he was inducted into the Florida Law Enforcement Hall of Fame. His impact on higher education was further solidified when Jacksonville University named its Minority Master’s in Public Policy Program after him, with its graduates recognized as Nathaniel Glover Fellows.
A dedicated philanthropist, Dr. Glover has consistently given back to his community. During his first term as Sheriff, he donated approximately $250,000 of his pension benefits to fund scholarships for low-income students in Jacksonville. His efforts in youth mentorship and education advocacy have made a lasting difference in the lives of many. In recognition of his commitment to service he has served on numerous boards, including the Edward Waters College Board of Trustees, The Bridge of Northeast Florida, and Take Stock in Children. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees at the Georgia School of Orthodontics, and his excellence is honored through the Dr. Nathaniel Glover Leadership & Professionalism Scholarship, established in his name. He was also a special envoy for education at Florida Community College at Jacksonville and Edward Waters College.
Dr. Glover’s influence extends into civic and fraternal organizations. He is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the Brotherhood of Police Officers. His contributions to the legal and justice systems earned him a seat on the U.S. Judicial Nominating Commission for the Middle District Conference during the 114th Congressional Term. Additionally, he has been actively involved with the Rotary Club, receiving the distinguished Paul Harris Fellow recognition. His leadership and vision have shaped policy discussions on youth, drug use, and violence at both state and national levels, including participation in the White House Leadership Conference on these issues.
In a career spanning decades, Dr. Glover has remained committed to public service, leaving an indelible mark on law enforcement, education, and community development. His contributions have been recognized at the highest levels, culminating in receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden. A devoted husband to Doris J. Bailey and a proud father and grandfather, he continues to inspire future generations through his dedication to justice, education, and community empowerment.