Leonard Sandridge, University executive vice president and chief operating officer, named Michael A. Gibson as University chief of police for a one-year interim period yesterday.
Gibson, a 23-year veteran of the University Police Department, is the current commander of operations and investigations.
University spokesperson Carol Wood said Gibson will serve as captain and chief of police for one year starting Oct. 25. During that time, she added, a search committee will be formed to look for a new chief of University Police.
Wood said Gibson will serve one year as captain and chief of University Police because one year will allow for a smooth transition from Gibson to the next chief of police.
Wood said Gibson was a solid appointment.
"[Gibson] is well known in the University community as being a bridge-builder and a team player, and he clearly understands what is different about being a police officer in an academic community -- and he has dedicated his life to that," she said.
Wood said Gibson respects the University community and the students who populate it.
"Mr. Gibson is very respectful of students and student self-governance," Wood said. "He understands our community and knows how it works, and he really enjoys the role of teacher and mentor."
Sandridge also said Gibson is an optimal choice.
"We are fortunate to have outstanding men and women in our department, and Lt. Gibson is the right person to lead them in this time of transition," Sandridge said. "I am grateful for him for taking on this important assignment."
Gibson said he is excited about the upcoming year.
"It's very exciting for me," Gibson said. "I've been there for 23 years, so it is a personal investment. You can't spend that much time at a place without an emotional attachment."
Gibson added that he is looking forward to the new duties he will have as the chief of police.
"I'll be more active in a lot of meetings, things on Grounds -- a bigger part of planning," he said. "But as a police officer, you are always involved with students, especially as an officer working in and around Grounds all day. This is a good opportunity for me to get back out and work with University administrators and students."
--Chris Hall contributed to this report.
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