Sgt. Lauren L. Misale, a 12-year veteran of the Clark University Police Department (CUPD) and Clark alumnus, has been appointed the University’s chief of police, effective November 2. President David Fithian said Misale was selected for her stellar record, strong relationships on campus and in the community, and deep commitment to students. She replaces Chief of Police Stephen Goulet who announced his retirement earlier this year.
“Sgt. Misale is an experienced, professional, thoughtful leader who not only has performed exceptionally during her years with the department, but also has impressive vision for strengthening the department and relationships within the Clark community and beyond,” said Fithian. “Sgt. Misale assumes the role of chief at a critically important time. Her deep familiarity with and long experience at Clark, as well as her tremendous energy and focus to providing safety and security in the special context of an educational environment will serve the University well.”
Misale joined CUPD as an officer in 2008 and was promoted to sergeant – the first woman to hold the position at Clark University – in 2013. She also has served as an adjunct professor, teaching criminal justice at Anna Maria College, Quinsigamond Community College, and The American Women’s College at Bay Path University. As an officer and sergeant with CUPD, Misale has focused intensively on efforts to support students and keep them safe. She was instrumental in the development of the Clark Anti Violence Education (C.A.V.E.) and “Bringing in the Bystander” programs on campus. As a sexual assault investigator, Misale handles sensitive matters with care and concern.
Misale was selected by a University search committee that included faculty, staff and student representatives (full list below). Candidates were recruited from across the country.
“Since I first came to Clark as a graduate student, I have experienced all that is so special about this University. Our job at CUPD is to make sure that everyone who is part of that experience – students, faculty, and staff – are able to thrive academically, socially, and professionally in an environment that is safe and welcoming,” said Misale. “I am tremendously excited to partner with President Fithian and many others to harness all that is working well today while finding new opportunities and new ways to meet the continually evolving needs of the community.”
According to Fithian, one of Misale’s first steps as chief will be the initiation of a University-wide engagement process to gain perspective about current department operations and ideas for strengthening CUPD going forward. This process will include regular opportunities for community engagement, beginning before the end of the fall semester.
“One of my highest priorities right now is to listen. I want to hear from our students, especially, about their experiences with CUPD – through our programs, our services, and just everyday interaction,” said Misale. “Trust has to be at the core of everything we do. And trust has to begin with open, honest dialogue.”
The CUPD planning process will consider a wide range of topics including policing methods and best practices, training, and the department’s role in the extended Main South area, Fithian added. “Lauren’s genuine concern for the safety and education of our students, as well as the entire Clark University community, motivates everything she does. I am confident that under her leadership, CUPD will serve us extremely well.”
Misale received her undergraduate degree from Curry College in 2006 and her MPA from Clark in 2012.
Members of the Clark University Police Department Chief of Police Search Committee include:
- Esther Jones, Associate Provost and Dean of the Faculty
- Lynn Levey, Title IX Coordinator
- Quincy Milton, Graduate Council Co-President
- Grace Sawyer, undergraduate student and member of Clark Rapid Response team
- Gloria Anderson. Undergraduate student and representative of the Black Student Union
- Tony Penny, Business Manager
- Megan Kersting, Director of the Clark University Center for Personal Growth
- David Everitt, Director of Human Resources
