University of Illinois Police Chief Jeff Christensen is set to retire at the end of December. Christensen began his career in public service with the University Police as a student patrolman in 1983.

He became Chief of Police for the department in 2012, after previously serving as Assistant Chief under Barbara O’Connor from 2008 to 2012 and as Interim Chief of Police following O’Connor’s retirement before being selected for the position permanently.

In a Nov. 17 statement, Christensen, a recipient of the 1998 Chancellor’s Distinguished Staff Award, was quick to focus on others.

“It’s been a dream,” Christensen said. “It’s been a blast working with all these people, but the best part has been being able to get to know the students over the past 20-plus years.”

Christensen has stated that he is not likely to seek out another law enforcement position and will instead continue to teach law enforcement classes at Parkland Community College.

“I’m hopeful that with new people, they are able to lead the department in an new and exciting direction,” Christensen said.

Deputy Chief of Police Matt Myrick will step in as Interim Chief of Police starting in January while a search for a suitable candidate to fill the role as Head of the Department will begin. 

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