Not one – but two stories this week covering the Big Fella’s involvement with local communities, law enforcement, and more. Way to go, Shaq! As you know, O’Neal has worn many titles over the years — NBA champion, Hall of Famer, businessman, broadcaster, DJ, and philanthropist. Now, the Big Diesel can officially add another one to the list: Chief of Community Relations.
After spending the past five years working closely with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia as its Director of Community Outreach, O’Neal was formally promoted during ESPN’s Christmas Day NBA broadcast. Sheriff Reginald B. Scandrett joined Shaq on-air to announce the new title and recognize his impact, calling it a moment to “give honor where honor is due.”
The promotion wasn’t symbolic. It was earned.
According to Sheriff Scandrett, Dr. Shaquille O’Neal — a title he’s held since earning his doctorate in 2012 — was “at the helm” during a major expansion of the sheriff’s office’s community programs and outreach efforts.
“With gratitude for your leadership, compassion, and unwavering support of our mission to protect and serve,” Scandrett read from a plaque, “we proudly acknowledge your promotion to Chief of Community Relations.”
Shaq responded in classic Shaq fashion — standing tall, offering a salute, and accepting the honor with humility.
During O’Neal’s tenure as Director of Community Outreach, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office documented some eye-opening numbers:
• 370 community events
• 25,000 meals provided to local families
• 15,000 gifts distributed to children
• 42,000+ direct community interactions
Those figures represent more than statistics. They reflect consistent, hands-on engagement — moments where trust was built, relationships were strengthened, and real needs were met in a county located about 30 miles southeast of Atlanta.
Shaq first joined the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in January 2020, when Scandrett said the two shared a clear and specific plan for making a difference.
“I got the job from Sheriff Reginald B. Scandrett,” Shaq said at the time. “A lot of people asked me why, and I asked them, ‘Why not?’ When I played in the NBA for 19 years, this is what I did in every community I lived in.”
That philosophy has followed Shaq well beyond his playing days.
Most recently, O’Neal and the sheriff’s office teamed up for the fourth annual Ride4Unity event, which brought motorcycle riders, supporters, and law enforcement together to promote solidarity and connection.
Henry County isn’t the only place where Shaq has planted roots. He remains deeply involved in the greater Atlanta area, owning multiple Papa John’s locations, a historic Krispy Kreme store, and investing in local startups. He also records podcasts and media projects in Atlanta and maintains a home in McDonough, Georgia — the county seat of Henry County — in addition to his primary residence in Texas.
While Shaq’s NBA career was defined by dominance and championships, his post-basketball legacy continues to grow through service, leadership, and showing up where it matters most. This latest promotion is just another reminder that for Shaq, community has always been part of the game plan.