UC Police Swear In New Officers

Eight men and one woman joined the ranks of the University of Cincinnati on Wednesday, Nov. 19, bringing the university’s police force to 51 officers.

Many of the new officers come to UC with prior law enforcement experience from both local agencies and regional universities. Two additional officers, from Indiana University Police and U.S. Capital Police in Washington, D.C., are slated to join UC's police force in the spring following the completion of their academy training.

UC’s Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police Jason Goodrich opened the ceremony by welcoming the new officers and thanking them for choosing a career at UC.

“Serving as a police officer within a university community is a tremendous responsibility,” said Chief Goodrich. “You must serve the faculty, staff and students of the university, engage in teamwork, cultivate community partnerships, but above all you must have empathy and compassion for others and demonstrate integrity.”

Following opening remarks from Goodrich, UC President Santa J. Ono addressed the new officers.

“The safety of this university is of the highest priority. As UC police officers you have the ability to transform people and communities," said Ono. “You have a tremendous responsibility ahead of you, and I am confident that you will serve our community to the best of your ability. Welcome to the Bearcat family."

During the ceremony each officer recited the oath of office while supportive family members and others from the university community looked on.

For Officer Jennifer McMahon the swearing in event marked both a career change and a lifelong goal. She began her professional career as a high school math teacher, but longed to follow her childhood passion of law enforcement. Officer McMahon attended the police academy while raising her two sons.

“A law enforcement position with the University of Cincinnati is what I have been called to do. I feel like I am at home here. Interacting with students and keeping them safe is an extremely important role. I am excited to do my part and can’t wait to get started.”