With a recent rise in school security awareness, Godwin has decided to take two new security guards under its wing. These new faces aren’t just dedicated to keeping our school safe; they’re also working hard to build connections with the students and staff, providing safety and ingraining character within the halls of Godwin.

Colton Gunn is one of two new security guards at Godwin. He grew up in Mechanicsville and went to Atlee High School. Before working here, Gunn worked at a pesticide distribution company. “I did warehouse work, some sales work, and I got to talk to people,” said Gunn. 

Outside of work, Gunn likes to fill up his free time with his favorite activities. 

“I workout with my pops all the time, if not doing that, I’m at home grilling out with my friends,” said Gunn.

Alongside Gunn is Chris Arvin. He grew up in Henrico and is a 2011 Godwin graduate. Before Arvin came to Godwin, he worked at a church as a youth pastor in Mechanicsville and the Henrico area. 

Arvin was also a basketball referee but had to take a break because of serious health issues. He has Crohn’s Disease and hasn’t figured out how to “get it right” yet. In that time he stepped up and wrote for Virginia Tech’s basketball team because he had some knowledge of it. 

“I am now employed by CBS Sports, via 247 Sports, so I am a semi-professional sports writer. I get awesome access to the team and coaches and get credentials for every game or big tournament, so you might have seen me courtside on the TV for ACC Tournaments,” said Arvin.

When Arvin has spare time on his hands, he enjoys anything sports related with soccer and basketball being his two favorites. “I spend a lot of time with family in my nieces and nephews, mostly at sporting events, and like chilling with my little dog Panda,” said Arvin.

Beyond just providing safety for the students at Godwin, these two new security guards have a deeper perspective of their position. “I try not be too much of an authority figure. I can be somebody you can come up and talk to more so than just someone who barks orders at you all,” said Gunn. 

As for Arvin, he just tries to put a smile on peoples faces. “Security officers I think are generally viewed as bad or annoying, even if just by title alone, so I still have my job I have to do, but I try my best to break that mold and be more friendly whenever I can,” said Arvin. 

Taking on the position of a security officer at a high school can be a difficult task, but our security staff works everyday to make Godwin a more lively and safe place for the students and staff.