By Kim Lamb Gregory
CSUCI has a new Chief of Police.
President Erika Beck made it official at a March 16 swearing-in ceremony for Chief Michael Morris, who had been filling the role on a temporary basis since September 2017 when former Chief John Reid transferred to CSU Chico.
About 150 people attended the event, which was held on campus in Malibu Hall. Reid, who was among the guests, was a mentor to Morris during his 11 years as a CSUCI police lieutenant.
“He’s been a great leader and mentor and he’s the one who taught me how to be a chief,” Morris said.
Morris’ wife of 27 years, Nicki, pinned his new badge on her husband’s uniform and the room erupted in applause.
As is the custom, President Beck conducted the swearing-in ceremony as friends, members of his family and representatives from the campus and local law enforcement agencies looked on.
“Mike Morris possesses the vision, professionalism and experience to lead the CSUCI Police Department and ensure its reputation as a highly respected, collaborative and integral part of our campus community,” Beck said.
The President also is well-aware of Morris’ sense of humor, surprising him with a giant inflatable doughnut and a pink frosted cake shaped like a doughnut.
“I like doughnuts a lot,” Morris laughed. “My family and I devoured it.”
The doughnuts also were a nod to the regular informal get-togethers the University’s Police Department sponsors in order to get better acquainted with the students, one of his favorite parts of being a CSUCI police officer.
“Coffee with the Cops (doughnuts play an important role)” and “Cocoa with the PoPo” are opportunities for students to chat with the officers and begin to build trusting relationships.
His duties as chief will be more demanding, but Morris plans to make time to attend these events as much as he can. “I’m going to have to be more intentional to be involved in these events and connect with students,” Morris said. “It’s important to me. The greatest thing about this campus community is the people.”
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© Spring 2018 / Volume 22 /Number 01 / Bi-annual