University Police Officers Honored with Professionalism Award

The University Police Department (UPD) at Buffalo State recognized both police officers and members of the campus community who support efforts to provide a safe learning and working environment for the campus at a ceremony in early December. And, in keeping with the spirit of community service, UPD recently raised more than $1,000 for charity.

Six members of the UPD received the SUNY Police Chief’s Association 2014 Professionalism Award: Lieutenant Daniel R. Harris and officers Brian J. Bidell, Kenneth A. Herberger, James E. Huels, Matthew T. Taylor, and James R. Urbanski. Urbanski came to the aid of a student who was the victim of an armed robbery last April, and the other officers searched for and located the five fleeing suspects.

Lieutenant Michael W. Myers received the Meritorious Police Service Award for his leadership of the 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. shift in community policing and crime prevention.

Officers Steven M. Buscaglia, Patricia C. Hayes, and Scott K. Richards received the Excellent Police Service Award. Officer Hayes was recognized for her community policing efforts and her engagement with the campus community. Officers Buscaglia and Richards were recognized for their significant contributions to the Buffalo State University Police Honor Guard, which participated in a number of campus events including the annual Silent March in observance of Veterans Day.

At the December 1 ceremony, the UPD also honored five campus community members with department appreciation awards. Former students Aisha Henry and Sheriff Mohammed were recognized for their assistance to the student who was the victim of the April robbery. "While we encourage civilians to contact us if they see a crime in progress, we want to recognize their willingness to respond to the victim's calls for help," said Peter Carey, chief of police.

The UPD also recognized staff members Michael A. Heflin, director of residence life; Kris A. Kaufman, director of housing; and Lisa H. Krieger, assistant vice president for finance and management.

"These three individuals contribute significantly to our mission of creating a safe educational environment for the Buffalo State community," said Carey. "We are committed to community policing and service, and the active cooperation of campus staff helps us achieve this goal."

Beginning in early November, the UPD allowed its officers to participate in the Goatees for Charity fundraiser. Anyone wishing to grow a goatee paid $50; the funds raised were donated to the Lieutenant Colonel Matt Urban Human Services Center of Western New York. This year, the department raised more than $1,000. Earlier this year, they raised almost that much by participating in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.