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Armed with a flashlight and a smile, ����ԭ�� police Sgt. Stefan Kempf starts his 11 p.m. shift with a stroll through campus housing, hoping to strike up a conversation with students after a difficult day of classes and work.

“You can usually find me walking around the housing area asking people how their day was or what they are looking forward to,” said Kempf. “Students tend to be able to relax more since their schoolwork for the day is complete.”

Kempf, who has been a member of the ����ԭ�� Police Department for over 10 years, said that while working the midnight shift has its challenges because he is unable to see most faculty and staff in-person, he takes advantage of the interactions he does have.

“It is nice to have a conversation with students that show officers in a light that people normally don’t see,” he said. “I always take appreciation in the look that students give you when both parties have a common ground or a hobby that is shared.”

Kurt Holden, director of public safety, said officers who work the overnight shift face unique challenges.

“You have a different sleep schedule, eating schedule and social life than most people who work a normal 9 to 5,” Holden said. “However, I am proud that we have dedicated law enforcement professionals who work overnight to ensure a safe campus for our students, employees and visitors.”

The Department of Public Safety recognized the 2022 Officer of the Year and presented the Distinguished Service Award at its annual award ceremony at the Campus Services Building on April 4.

Robin Tellis, a graduate computer science student, received the Distinguished Service Award for his role as a student worker in the Police Department.

“Very thankful to receive the award because chief and the entire department really go out of their way to help make the community safer,” Tellis said. “They also truly care about the students, and I am just one example of many students that are thankful for the Police Department here on campus.”

The Department of Public Safety also recognized several officers and staff for their years of service to ����ԭ��:

• Three Year Service Award: Officer Dexter Hicks III
• Five Year Service Award: Support Services Specialist Ben Lootens
• 10 Year Service Award: Sgt. Stefan Kempf, Officer Tyler Pottkotter and Communications Center Operator Whitney White
• 15 Year Service Award: Sgt. Chad Oleyar and Sgt. Zachary Norman
• 25 Year Service Award: Public Safety Communications Supervisor Earl Thompson Jr.
• 30 Year Service Award: Capt. David Cox

“I’m very proud of Sgt. Kempf and all of our officers for what they do for our community,” said Holden.