Hillsborough County Public Schools -

The district has named Anthony Collins as the new Chief of Security and Emergency Management and Danielle Shotwell as the new Chief Human Resources Officer, reflecting a continued commitment to maintaining safe learning environments while supporting and retaining a strong workforce of educators and staff. 

“These two leadership roles are essential to the success of our district,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “By bringing strong, experienced leaders into these positions, we are reinforcing our commitment to safe schools, a supported workforce, and excellence in service to students and families.” 

Anthony Collins, Chief of Security and Emergency Management: 

Anthony Collins is bringing more than two decades of distinguished public safety leadership to the district. A highly respected law enforcement executive, Collins most recently served as Chief Deputy of Support Operations for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the nation.

In that role, he oversaw more than 1,600 personnel and helped lead operations across a $653 million organization. He served as Incident Commander for emergency operations, oversaw the School Resource Deputies program, and played a leading role in numerous large-scale security operations in our schools over the years.

In his new role with the district, Collins will lead all aspects of school security, including threat assessment, emergency preparedness, crisis response, and community safety initiatives. His leadership will play a critical role in strengthening school safety systems while fostering trust and collaboration with students, families, staff, and community partners. Collins begins his role on June 3.

“Anthony Collins is a proven leader who understands that school safety is about more than protocols, it’s about people,” said Superintendent Ayres. “His experiences and his commitment to this community make him exactly the right person to lead this critical work.”

Collins holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from St. Leo University and served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army National Guard.

Collins’ appointment follows the retirement of Chief John Newman, who has dedicated 12 years of service to Hillsborough County Public Schools and played a vital role in advancing the district’s safety and security efforts. Chief Newman was recently selected as Florida’s School Safety Specialist of the Year, for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the safety and well-being of students and staff.

Danielle Shotwell, Chief Human Resources Officer

Danielle Shotwell brings nearly three decades of experience with the district, with a career spanning classroom instruction, school leadership, and district‑level administration.

She currently serves as General Manager of Budget and Federal Finance for Hillsborough County Public Schools, where she oversees districtwide budgeting and federal financial planning. Before assuming that role, Shotwell served as General Manager of Employee Relations and Chief Negotiator, leading labor negotiations and employee relations efforts for the district.  

“This role is foundational to everything we do,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “Our teachers, administrators, and support staff are the heart of our schools. Strong human resources leadership ensures we can attract great people, support them throughout their careers, and create the conditions for students to succeed.” 

Shotwell will oversee district human resources operations, including recruitment and retention, employee relations, labor relations, employee onboarding, and benefits administration. The position plays a key role in supporting employees across the district and fostering a strong, positive organizational culture. Shotwell begins her role effective July 1.

Shotwell’s prior experience includes serving as a high school principal and assistant principal, as well as a math teacher and coach, giving her a comprehensive perspective on both instructional and operational needs across K–12 education.  

She holds an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics Education.  

For more information on the superintendent’s cabinet and leadership, visit hillsboroughschools.org.