UPD Recognizes New Officers, Promotions

04/06/2026

SUNY Cortland's University Police Department recently held a swearing-in ceremony to recognize staff promotions and new officers.

The March 26 event was one of the department's largest in recent years, with recognition of the following staff members:

• Jason Welch, promoted to assistant chief;
• Travis Blockand Dustin Morris '12, promoted to lieutenant; and
• Keyshawn Clarke-Wells, John DiVirgilio, Elisabeth Evansand Diondre Smith, new officers who have completed or are nearing completion of their field training.

UPD oversees law enforcement and security functions on SUNY Cortland's campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year, with an emphasis on community policing. The department currently includes 20 full-time staff members and two K-9 units.

UPD also recently received reaccreditation from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, which recognizes conceptually sound and operationally effective policies across three categories: administrative standards, training standards and operational standards.