Following a national search, SUNY Oneonta announced Aug. 9 that Dirk R. Budd has accepted the role of Chief of Police for the college. His appointment begins Monday, Aug. 15, with a swearing-in ceremony at the college’s new Emergency Services Building.
Chief Budd takes the helm from Interim Chief William Henn, who served in the role for the past year. Henn will return to his role as Assistant Chief coinciding with Chief Budd's appointment.
"I am pleased that our search for a new chief has resulted in such a talented and experienced individual as Chief Budd. I look forward to welcoming him to the community and know the college will benefit from the breadth of his knowledge and skills. I also extend my gratitude to William Henn, who has provided excellent leadership for the University Police Department and has been a wonderful resource for colleagues across campus for the past year.”
Chief Budd joins the college from the Adams County Sheriff's Office in the Denver metro area of Colorado, where he has served as the chief of the Detective Division since 2019. In this role, he oversaw all investigative functions of the agency, including detectives, the crime lab and victim advocates.
His career in law enforcement began in 1995 with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department. He relocated to the New York City Police Department, where he graduated from the NYPD academy with honors in 1998. Chief Budd then transferred in 2000 to the Ulster County Sheriff's Office, serving until 2019 in various leadership positions.
Chief Budd has earned numerous commendations and awards, including recognition from the New York State Legislature and the Medal of Honor. He has extensive training in criminal investigation, police supervision, internal affairs, media relations and crisis management. Additionally, Chief Budd has experience in proper law enforcement response to mental health crises and is a trained crisis negotiator. He served on the Board of Directors for the Ulster County Mental Health Association.
As Chief of Police, Budd will serve on the President's Cabinet and collaborate with divisions and departments across the college to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all students and employees. He will supervise and provide direction to all members of the University Police Department, overseeing responsibilities in law enforcement, dispatch, emergency management, parking and administrative support.