2023 UWPD Awards

Nominated by: Police Officer Justin Zurbuchen

UWPD responded to 35 N Park St for a PNB after a student fell out a window. The above listed person went beyond normal duties trying to save the students life. Katherine provided compressions trying to save the life of the student.

Nominated by: Lt. Adam Boardman

Bruce Schweiger is the Superintendent at the OJ Noer Turfgrass facility at University Ridge Golf Course. Bruce has been an amazing partner to UWPD, and has played an integral role in helping us provide for the safety and security of fans and athletes at the AmFam Championship (PGA) since the initial event in 2016. Bruce has gone above and beyond, year after year, to coordinate and facilitate our use of the facility. This has included establishing the command post utilized by multiple agencies, providing access to equipment and vehicles utilized by UWPD on the course, securely storing expensive equipment, and much more.

Nominated by: Cathryn Mosher

When the 1433 Monroe Street project began a number of trades persons were assigned to this particular project. We were working on a condensed budget, shortened timeline, an old building with archaic wiring and found out mid project of a major change that would not only impact the budget, but the completion of the project and our anticipated move in PRIOR to the Fall 2023 Football season.

Due to this major change in the window location from the anticipated vestibule to the interior hallway our three main trades guys stepped up, coordinated communication, what will work, what is best for the space and how to work around a cinder block wall. The Electricians, Ryan Schmelzer and Kyle Kittleson had their hands full when the remodel began. 1433 is an old building and was a wiring nightmare and then on top of it we have specific network and data requirements that needed to be met. Both of these guys stepped up amass a bunch of confusion trying to figure out what would work best to meet our department requirements and ensure their job was done accurately.

The carpenter, Brian Meyer has been amazing to work with. He does high quality work, communicated when there were issues, and even let us know of a squatter that was among the walls (it was a dead mouse). Brian worked on this project as if it were something he were building at his home. He takes great pride in making sure measurements line up according to what the drawings list and if they don’t, he questions them, and provides recommendations to come up with an informed resolution. Brian is now on another project in our building and again, when he has questions or concerns, he brings them to our attention and provides us with knowledgeable recommendations to ensure we are making informed decisions.

For these reasons, nominate Ryan, Kyle and Brian for a 2023 Chief’s Award to express our thanks for all of their hard work on the 1433 project and the current 1429 project.

Nominated by: Interim Security Supervisor Kyle Kaul

On 11/19/2023, SO Mark Barnaba responded to a water leak in multiple rooms at Moore Hall. Those rooms included a server room as well as the fire panel room. A plumber was requested to shut off the source of the water, but the plumber did not arrive until 2 hours after called. SO Barnaba covered the fire panel with a bag to prevent damage to the unit. The building manager for Moore Hall reached out and expressed his gratitude for the quick thinking of SO Barnaba stating that he likely saved the fire panel by covering the unit.

SO Mark Barnaba went above the normal scope of duties to prevent further damage from the leak.

Nominated by: LED Kyleah Carruthers

Security Supervisor Waage received a plea from the daughter of a former police chief who had been declining in the hospital for the past few days. They needed to have a document signed and notarized. LED Carruthers is presently a notary and volunteered her services to the family in their time of need. Supervisor Waage arranged for coverage of dispatch for 30 minutes by PO Bond and coordinated transportation by SO’s Femrite and Huset to the hospital, so that LED Carruthers was able to complete the notarization. The family was grateful for the assistance.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• LED Carruthers volunteering /completing notary duties.
• PO Bond for covering dispatch.
• Security Supervisor Waage for coordinating the efforts.
• SO’s Femrite and Huset for transporting LED Carruthers.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

On 10/26/2023, PO Conybear was concluding his mounted patrol for the evening. While returning the horses to the Stock Pavilion, he stumbled upon a semi-truck driver who was lost and distraught. The driver’s dog was experiencing a medical emergency and he had been searching for the UWMadison Veterinary Hospital without success. Without hesitation, PO Conybear placed the man and his dog into his squad car and drove them to the nearby Veterinary Hospital for emergency care. This small act of kindness and empathy allowed a person to obtain medical care for his beloved pet in it’s final moments.

He then returned to the individual’s semi truck, secured it, and delivered the keys back to the veterinary hospital. It exemplifies the UWPD value of empathy in his performing a service beyond what might be expected of a patrol officer. The subject later made contact to express his profound gratitude to PO Conybear for his kindness in an extremely difficult moment for him. He stated it provided him a modicum of comfort in sadness.

Nominated by: Security Supervisor Theresa Waage

SO Dwars contact Dispatch regarding two abandoned bags he located outside of the Elvehjem. He observed a loaded pistol magazine inside one of the bags. Further search by Patrol yielded a pistol (no serial number) one extended pistol magazine (fully loaded), and one compact pistol magazine (fully loaded). Property was taken into evidence.

Dwars went over and above by conducting not only an internal search of the building as required by his job duties, he also conducted foot patrol outside. Had he not, these items may have been placed in the wrong hands or been picked up by a child. He did just as he has been trained and was able to stop a potential dangerous situation from occurring! These items are now off the streets because of him.

Nominated by: LEDS Dawn Veirs

On 10/21/2023 at approximately 03:04 hours Dane County Comm Center broadcasted a weapons violation in the area of 260 Langdon St with a 30 second time delay. They described the suspects and the direction of travel. The suspects had pulled a gun on a UW student and then fled towards State and then southbound Frances.

LED Salvador broadcasted beat information for officer safety. LED’s Ryan and Salvador and Handel immediately began pulling up cameras. Suspects were quickly located. LED Handel made contact with Dane County Comm Center and communicated that we had video footage confirming the direction of travel of the suspects. MPD made contact with one suspect and detained him. LED Salvador continued to monitor that officer on camera while completing a meticulous search which resulted in locating additional footage of the suspects outside Fluno Center. LED Handel reviewed the recordings and saved the files to be shared.  MPD was updated with all additional findings.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• LED Kathleen Ryan: pulling cameras and locating suspects walking south on Frances on the Lowell Center cameras.
• LED Emily Salvador: Broadcasted beat information, reviewed cameras, monitored MPD.
• LED Cameron Handel reviewed cameras, made assisting phone calls to Dane County Comm, assisted in obtaining exact time video footage and saving the files to be shown to MPD.
• LEDS Dawn Veirs:  Helped her team figure out how to get the pictures to Dane County, along side staff during this event reassuring and coaching them through the incident.  For this being one of the reasons her staff performed so well because of LEDS Veirs leadership.

Nominated by: Det. Sgt. Peter Grimyser

I hereby submit a formal nomination for the recognition of Police Officer Kenan Goyette for an Excellent Service Award. Currently serving as the Evidence Custodian for the University of Wisconsin Police Department (UWPD), Officer Goyette has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to his duties.

In addition to his primary role, Officer Goyette has willingly undertaken the supplementary responsibility of spearheading theft investigations. Throughout the year 2023, he successfully resolved a commendable total of 13 theft cases, predominantly involving bicycles, E-bikes, or scooters. Notably, these investigations encompassed the  identification and apprehension of eight distinct individuals, some of whom were operating in collaboration, collectively responsible for at least 18 theft incidents.

Officer Goyette’s meticulous and effective investigative efforts have significantly contributed to the security and integrity of the University of Wisconsin campus. By securing bail conditions for the identified perpetrators, he has not only ensured their temporary removal but has also played a crucial role in deterring further theft activities. This proactive approach underscores Officer Goyette’s dedication to maintaining a safe and secure environment for the University community.

In light of these outstanding contributions, I strongly recommend Police Officer Kenan Goyette for the Excellent Service Award, as his exceptional performance and dedication truly exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement service.

Nominated by: Suzanne Brandt and Capt. Jason Whitney

John has been integral in launching our new safety app, BadgerSAFE. He took a lead in content development and app design/development. John has become the go-to person in regard to knowledge of BadgerSAFE. We would not have been able to launch the app in such an aggressive timeline without his assistance. He also worked hard to push the app with students and assisted in getting them to download it during fall semester.

John goes above and beyond in all he does and has been an amazing asset to the UWPD team. This project is just one of many examples of how he innovates and improves the community where he works and lives.

Nominated by: Det. Sgt. Peter Grimyser

I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Sgt. (Fmr. Police Officer) Adam “AP” Prescott for an Excellent Service Award in recognition of his exceptional service in investigating a case of unauthorized capture of an intimate representation without consent within a locker room.

Officer Prescott’s dedication and thoroughness in handling this sensitive case exemplify his commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Here are some key highlights of Officer Prescott’s outstanding work:

• Comprehensive Investigation: Sgt. Prescott conducted a meticulous investigation that involved multiple interviews, enabling him to gather essential information and build a comprehensive understanding of the incident.
• Identification of Additional Victim: Through his diligence, Sgt. Prescott identified a second victim, demonstrating his ability to uncover crucial details and ensure the thoroughness of the investigation.
• Review of Surveillance Footage: Sgt. Prescott demonstrated technical proficiency by thoroughly reviewing video surveillance footage, contributing significantly to the evidentiary foundation of the case.
• Successful Suspect Interview: Sgt. Prescott’s skillful handling of the suspect interview resulted in a confession, showcasing his exceptional ability to navigate sensitive conversations and elicit crucial information.
• Legal Outcome: Thanks to Sgt. Prescott’s exemplary efforts, the individual involved was charged with two felony crimes by the Dane County District Attorney’s Office, underscoring the effectiveness and impact of his investigation.

Sgt. Prescott’s dedication, professionalism, and successful resolution of this case truly set him apart as an outstanding law enforcement professional. His commitment to justice, victim advocacy, and community safety make him an ideal candidate for an Excellent Service Award.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

On 6/21/2023, Sgt. (Fmr. Police Officer) Shaw was dispatched to assist SHPD with a subject who was throwing signs and construction barrels into traffic on University Avenue. Upon attempting to contact the subject, they refused to obey commands and eventually entered a residence which was not theirs and barricaded themselves inside. Sgt. Shaw immediately recognized the gravity of the situation, expediently made entry into the house and evacuated numerous residents of the home to ensure their safety. He also determined there was a firearm in the home which the subject may have been able to access.

Sgt. Shaw coordinated the response of additional UWPD officers, SHPD, and MPD and was the leader of this incident due to no formal supervisory staff being on scene.

Sgt. Shaw demonstrated keen leadership abilities and the depth of his grasp of proper police procedure and training. Sgt. Shaw ensured the safety of all occupants of the residence, performed a secondary check to ensure no additional occupants remained in the home, arranged a perimeter around the home, and established a contact team to ultimately de-escalate the situation safely and take the barricaded subject into custody. Sgt. Shaw’s leadership in this incident was exceptional. His quick thinking and willingness to put himself into a potentially dangerous situation to protect life and safely take a person into custody who was in a clear mental health crisis is commendable and worthy of recognition.

Nominated by: PO Devan Arbay

LED Smith proactively monitored CCTV cameras and observed a vehicle operator who appeared impaired based on their driving behavior. Smith continued to follow the vehicle using a multitude of cameras and provided this information to patrol. Contact was later made and the driver was arrested for OWI. What initially appeared to be OWI, rapidly turned into the driver suffering from a mental health crisis and medical emergency.

The driver was evaluated at a nearby hospital and was provided necessary care. An emergency detention was going to be initiated but the driver became voluntary. Smith’s actions prevented the driver from continuing to drive in the downtown area and throughout campus, which was actively creating a dangerous situation for the driver and others.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

In early 2023, I was made aware of an organization known as “Lights On.” This organization partners with police departments and auto repair shops for their work. In summary, police departments which partner with this organization receive vouchers. When officers stop a vehicle for a violation which involves a non-functioning vehicle light (turn signal, brake light, tail light, head light, license plate light, etc), an officer may issue the driver a voucher and a warning, in lieu of a citation. The driver may then redeem the voucher at a local auto repair shop which has partnered with lights on and have their light fixed free of charge.

This program is tremendous for improving community relations, improving equitable outcomes, and solving problems, instead of simply enforcing the law. When I asked for an officer to undertake this project with me, Former PO Gamache was the only officer to respond to my request. We met with the organization to understand the program together and begin the partnership. She proceeded to do the vast majority of the work to implement this at UWPD, with minimal assistance from me. To summarize, PO Gamache was responsible for securing the appropriate command/university approvals for funding this program, identifying local auto repair shops who were willing to undertake this partnership, contact other police agencies to understand how this was implemented, identify policy considerations, and develop a training which will be provided to all officers. Thanks to her efforts, I have officially ordered our first set of vouchers which will be arriving to our police department by the end of January and we may begin the official implementation of this program.

The UWPD will be the first police department in the entire state of Wisconsin to partner with this organization. PO Gamache’s efforts demonstrate a profound, dedicated, and tenacious commitment to service of the community and improving equitable outcomes. I unequivocally recommend PO Gamache for the community service commendation for her efforts.

Nominated by: Sgt. Nicki Zautner

Sgt. Lepper, Sgt. Mulvey, and PO Maya responded to a report of a subject who collapsed in the street at W. Johnson St. at Marion St. These officers recognized the subject was suffering cardiac arrest and took appropriate steps for medical intervention, including chest compressions, rescue breaths, and utilizing an AED. The subject was later transported to the hospital via ambulance and survived.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• Sgt. Lepper – Recognizing symptoms of cardiac arrest, using trauma shears to cut through subject’s shirt for AED placement, utilizing bag valve mask to give rescue breaths.
• Sgt. Mulvey – Recognizing symptoms of cardiac arrest, placing subject into rescue position while vomiting, then proceeding with chest compressions.
• PO Maya – Recognizing symptoms of cardiac arrest, retrieving AED, assisting with bag valve mask to administer rescue breaths.

Nominated by: Lt. Juan Avila

PO Arbay Assisted MFD & MPD with a PNB response to College Ct.  PO Arbay conducted CCR, Sgt Lepper arrived to assist and helped with. One witness was physically removed by PO Maya and MPD as they were uncooperative and interfering with life saving measures actively being performed. MPD took over investigation. Victim was transported to a local hospital.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• PO Arbay – CCR
• Sgt. Lepper – AED
• PO Maya – Physically removed witness with MPD who was uncooperative and interfering with life saving measures actively being performed.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

On 4/3/2023, UW 911 was advised of a student attempting to die by suicide via hanging in their residence hall room. Officers responded to the emergency call and upon recognizing the urgency of the situation, made the determination to force entry into the room to intervene in the suicide attempt. Officers utilized door breaching equipment to make entry when they observed the student with a belt around their neck hanging from a bar in their closet. Officers lifted the student to remove the weight from the belt and their neck while they were cut down. They then removed the belt from their neck and was attended to by emergency medical personnel who arrived on scene thereafter. The actions of these officers directly contributed to the saving of a life and are a reflection of the UWPD value of guardianship.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• Lt Boardman, PO Koss, and PO Bond were directly responsible for utilizing UWPD breaching tools to breach the door to gain access to the student.
• All five officers were responsible for lifting the student off of the ground and supporting their weight to get the belt off of their neck while Lt Boardman utilized his knife to cut the belt so they could be safely lowered to the ground and assessed.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

On October 1st, EMS, police, and lake rescue were dispatched to the Memorial Union for a report of an individual drowning off of the Goodspeed Pier. The callers reported that they had attempted to assist the individual by tossing a sweater to them. They had gotten them closer to the pier but were unable to pull them up. The subject then slipped beneath the pier and bystanders were unable to determine if their upper body was above the water.

Upon arrival, PO Conybear jumped into the water to determine if the subject was alive and able to keep himself above the water. Upon making contact with the subject, PO Conybear was able to assist the person back from underneath the pier. At that point, POs Brnusak and Perez were standing on the pier and pulled both the subject and PO Conybear from the water. The subject was subsequently treated by EMS and transported to a local hospital. The subject was heavily intoxicated and further disclosed an inability to swim. They stated they had been attempting to sit on the edge of the pier and had inadvertently fallen into the water. These officer’s actions are commendable and I recommend all three for a lifesaving award.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• PO Conybear- Removed all of his gear and jumped into the lake to assist the subject.
• POs Perez and Brnusak pulled the subject from the water.

Nominated by: Sgt. Nicki Zautner

PO Lee responded to the Memorial Union after a subject fell on the pier after swimming and punctured their leg. The leg wound was so severe that a tourniquet was applied by PO Lee on scene upon his assessment. The subject was transported to a local hospital ER via ambulance shortly after, where medical staff identified that the injury was indeed lifethreatening and commended the timely tourniquet application by PO Lee. The subject was taken into surgery for their injury shortly after and is expected to make a full recovery.

Nominated by: Lt. Adam Boardman and Capt. Mark Silbernagel

I would like to nominate Security Supervisor Andy Kinzler for the Professional Service Award. Sup. Kinzler has worked extremely hard to meet the unique and evolving needs of the UW Athletic Department. On many occasions, Sup. Kinzler has gone well above and beyond expectations in the course of his service.

For example, in collaboration with the entire Athletic Department Security Team and Athletic Department Leadership, Sup. Kinzler helped to research, implement, train, and successfully integrate a visitor management system at Camp Randall Stadium and the Kohl Center during day-to-day operations. Sup. Kinzler continually assessed and implemented process improvements. There were multiple periods in which the Athletic Department Security Team suffered through staffing shortages and Sup. Kinzler dedicated more than his fair share of time covering shifts so others could be spared.

Sup. Kinzler was also instrumental in helping to further address some physical security vulnerabilities and best practices within Camp Randall Stadium. Sup. Kinzler made recommendations based on crime prevention through environmental design. He conducted training with Athletic Department staff and reinforced safety and security best practices. He reinforced changes to access control routes and a layered security approach. He led by example in conducting quality control checks and taking corrective actions.

Sup. Kinzler also went far above and beyond in his commitment to home football game operations. As a security subject matter expert, he was often required to fill many roles from beginning to end, while he worked every game in 2023. He was often one of the first to arrive and last to leave from football operations, including serving on the bollard team every single game. He led multiple football operations safety and security enhancement initiatives that resulted in increased protection of high value and sensitive areas. He received positive feedback from those he led and those who counted on him.

Nominated by: Capt. Jason Whitney

Suzanne took the primary role in the roll out of getting the one button solution, “Alurtus” for the Madison campus. Her willingness to be proactive and go above and beyond in such a short time and get this implemented on our large campus should be commended. Suzanne lead her team of employees tasked with coming up with a solution for campus.

Nominated by: LEDM LeAnn Krieg

Since 2020, we have implemented a new phone system, new radio system, new recording program, new alarm system, and new CAD. Along with the work configuring, implementing and training on these systems, during this time we also went down to 4 dispatchers, and hired and trained 7 new dispatchers. LEDs Brunner and Cederquist, and LEDS Gonring played a role in training each of the new dispatchers. One of the challenges was training 3 dispatchers at one time, something we have never done before, and it was done with only 3 trainers. While we did have help from a former LED and new LED Supervisor Veirs, this small team has trained almost non-stop for the past year, and the countless hours of continuous training, weekly meetings, and scheduling took a lot of dedication toward the success of the entire Communication Center team. LEDs Brunner and Cederquist, and LEDS Gonring have also been integral in the installation of all of the new technology.

The additional work of bringing on a new system does not end after the implementation and training – continued work updating configurations and processes, along with updating training resources, continues well after the final sign off of the project. Updating or replacing each of our critical pieces of equipment has been continuous over the past few years and these three have dedicated countless hours toward ensuring comprehensive configuration of the programs and that execution of new procedures is understood by all. Each of them has shown exceptional dedication in performance of their duties during all of these changes.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• LEDS Gonring – Created training schedules and regularly revised schedules to meet the needs of the trainees and our operations, in addition to training new LEDs. Played a lead role in configuration of the phone, radio, and CAD systems, along with making decisions on best practices.
• LED Brunner – Continuously updated and improved training materials, trained new LEDs, and provided input and feedback on new systems.
• LED Cederquist – Participated on the configuration team for the new CAD, and assisted as a liaison for Lenel. Continuously trained new dispatchers and assisted in updating training materials.

Nominated by: Suzanne Brandt

Ed Has led our active threat community education program since 2018 and has trained almost 3,000 people. He has also coordinated the logistics of other instructors leading the course. This is an incredibly important training for our campus community. It gives them the tools to feel prepared if they had to face an active threat situation on campus or elsewhere. It also provides valuable education on the expectations and needs of law enforcement in this type of situation. Ed has continually updated the content and ensured its relevance in an ever-evolving campus environment.

Due to a restructuring of our unit, Ed is taking on a new role with an emphasis on the universities of WI. He will be”passing the torch” of the active threat training program to Megan Schaefer. We would like recognize Ed’s significant contribution to this program, our department and the university.

Nominated by: Lt. Ryan Jesberger

Jessica Rodin and Mandi Meier led (and continue to lead) the Department’s massive upgrade to the new Central Square Pro records, CAD, and property system. While simply upgrading the system could be considered “part of their jobs,” both Jessica and Mandi went above and beyond to ensure the preparation, back-ups, training sessions, and continuity between the two systems was as seamless as possible. They continue to work on troubleshooting issues and concerns for stakeholders around the department and beyond.

Jessica and Mandi held countless planning and cut over meetings with our CS Pro representative, scheduled, led, and coordinated training sessions with all end-users representing every division of UWPD, and remain the main points of contact for any issues, needs, questions, or concerns with the system…and there have been plenty of all of them.

For an award designed to acknowledge a non-sworn employee’s outstanding contributions to law enforcement for project, program, or event which contributes to the highest degree of professional excellence, Rodin and Meier’s actions continue to be above and beyond regular, expected work, and require a considerable devotion of time to complete. This project impacts all facets of the department and the positive results are seen daily by UWPD team members, campus community stakeholders, and law enforcement peers.

Nominee(s) Involvement:

• Jessica Rodin – Main point of contact and designer for reporting mechanisms, records transitions, custom forms, troubleshooting, and training/scheduling.
• Mandi Meier – Main point of contact for vendor relationships, training/scheduling, design and maintenance of servers and tech needs, and new module/transition programming.

Nominated by: Sgt. Jake Lepper

PO Lema Hernandez has served as the downtown liaison officer for four years. During this time, he has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to the role and has taken on the significant responsibility of building the role into its present form. PO Lema Hernandez has demonstrated sustained and exceptional community relations. UWPD officers have frequently observed students and community members greeting Diego by name on a weekend evening. Community members frequently approach supervisors and state how positive of an impact his relationship building has had. He has greatly enhanced public safety for our off campus community members through safety presentations, trainings, additional patrols, and by serving as a constantly available resource. He has also burnished UWPD’s relationship with the Madison Police Department’s community policing teams and other downtown safety initiatives. PO Lema Hernandez deserves to be recognized for the persistent and exceptional community service he has provided in his role as the Downtown Liaison Community Officer.

Nominated by: LEDM LeAnn Krieg

Capt. Silbernagel shows respect to all individuals and treats people with dignity in his work. He was part of the original team that built the Peer Support program, and managed the program for about 5 years. As the prior leader of the Peer Support program, and one of the Department’s few DDRs, he has been in positions where he is privy to the  personal and private information for many people.

Having this departmental support is an important part of building our internal team, and he continuously shows how much he values the wellness of our team members. Capt. Silbernagel has also been part of the re-building of the Mounted Unit and manages the Specialty Units for the Department. Part of the role of the specialty units is interacting with our community to build relationships and engagement.

While these responsibilities are part of his role, he exemplifies respect in carrying them out. Not only does Capt. Silbernagel treat others with respect and dignity, he is well regarded both personally and as a leader in the Department.

Nominated by: Capt. Jason Whitney

Captain Caradine has consistently worked with new recruits on their physical fitness for years. She takes time away from her day around the academy schedule and travels to MATC and works out with the recruits. She develops programs for them so they can have the highest success during the PT test.

Caradine has been a valuable member of the UWPD Wellness Committee and is a state certified fitness instructor/evaluator. Her dedication to fitness, and overall health is second to none. Employees look up to Caradine, go to her for help and guidance and she is always willing to help any employee with their health goals.

Nominated by: Capt. Cherise Caradine

Brett Van Ess has taken his call for service as the Director of Threat Intervention Services to a new level. He has increased engagement for Threat within the UWPD, campus community partners and neighboring agencies. He has worked diligently to improve our threat program with tracking and information sharing. He collaborates with campus and neighboring partners to ensure community safety. He was part of the inaugural group of BIG 10 schools collaborative Threat Team to share best practices and keep our program moving forward.

In 2023, Dir Van Ess had at least 135 subjects or incidents of concern that posed a potential threat to campus safety that he evaluated. Of those 135 referrals, 60 were jointly reviewed by the Threat Assessment Team that he oversees. This team meets monthly and is a team compiled of campus partners that have a shared vested interest in campus safety through different lenses. Dir Van Ess addresses these persons or incidents of concern in a variety of ways and shares information with police and other campus partners.

He has been an exceptional addition to the Investigative Services Team and is truly a campus guardian.

Nominated by: Capt. Jason Whitney

Lt. Avila has been a valued member of the Athletic Liaison team for several years. His service and dedication are second to none over the last 10 years. He has established lasting relationships at Athletics that are invaluable to our partnership.

I have observed first hand how much respect and esteem he has with Athletics. Avila adheres to our core values and is always professional, most times putting work above his personal life. There is no question that if duty calls, Avila will be the first to respond to assist. He has shown years of dedicated service to all sports but most respected by the football and volleyball programs.

Nominated by: Lt. Beth Lopez

Sgt Burgoni continues to demonstrate what it means to be a true leader. Sgt Burgoni has served as a Training Sgt for the UW Madison Police Department for the past two years. Coming from the Patrol division as a Supervisor, this new role has challenged him and allowed him to demonstrate other capabilities, both administratively and as and effective instructor for the Department.

Sgt Burgoni’s title may be Training Sgt, but his responsibilities goes well beyond that. Sgt Burgoni is heavily involved in many of the moving pieces within the Department. He continues to be the mentor and point of contact for many of the new on-boarding Officers – he continues communication between them while at the Academy and also provides extra training, to include firearms, in between to assure a successful path to Graduation. In between on-boarding new members of this Department, he can be seen very active connecting with outside community partners and interdepartmental members to schedule, build relationships, and create well ran trainings for both sworn and non sworn staff.

On occasions, there has been barriers that come about that causes last minute changes to the planned events. Sgt Burgoni continues to stay calm and professional and always finds a way to successfully navigate through the curve balls. This includes multiple trainings on the same day, typical training rooms used not being available due to other priorities or construction, etc.

Sgt Burgoni has also been one of the driving forces behind creating a more organized and more efficiently ran equipment room. He is able to communicate effectively to his staff and others above his rank, the importance of inventory as the new Quartermaster process begins. He continues to stay involved with many of the new Department construction and provides guidance and assistance – more then his normal duties expect of him, without hesitation.

Sgt Burgoni displays a deep respect for his coworkers and profession. Sgt Burgoni leads his team with the upmost respect while setting priorities and standards. He assists in identifying potential flaws in the systems and creates ways to make things run more efficiently and effectively. This includes inventory of the ammo and equipment room, creating tracking systems to document effectively, training sheets to provide clear guidelines on training and DOJ shots, and more. He continues to find ways to make operations and people around him better through his motivation and respect to those around him.
Sgt Burgoni also goes above and beyond his line of duty and goes outside his own work area to assist and stay connected to Patrol Sgt Burgoni continues to assist Patrol and works as an OIC or a Patrol Officer as shifts continue to be short. He identifies the importance to stay connected with both officers and the community to assure his skills stay strong and his leadership skills continues to effect everyone that he contacts.

Nominated by: Capt. Mark Silbernagel & Sgt. Jake Lepper

I would like to nominate Downtown Liaison Community Officer Diego Lema Hernandez for the UWPD Guardianship Leadership Award. I believe he exemplified the values and characteristics central to this award. During his role as the Downtown Liaison Community Officer, Diego helped his community feel safe, heard, and valued.

He dedicated himself to the people that he served and demonstrated rising to a higher cause. As our community reckoned with many difficult issues locally, nationally, and globally, Diego had the unique ability to help others share their thoughts and concerns without judgment or fear. Diego went to great lengths to develop trust and reliability within the community that he served. During times of crisis, downtown community members frequently asked for him by name when asking for assistance.

His sincerity and genuineness were invaluable during the many tense protests and demonstrations on and around campus. Diego was often intentionally selected to be a liaison with protest and demonstration groups because of the rapport he had developed and his interpersonal skills. Diego directly contributed to ensuring these events were safe and secure while ensuring constitutional rights are protected and exercised. His involvement was not just limited to first amendment events, he spent countless hours meeting with underrepresented individuals and groups to help understand their needs and to contribute to the overall educational mission of University Wisconsin Madison.

Diego certainly demonstrated exceptional community policing, strengthening community through active and inclusive community collaboration, and providing education and training opportunities to those he served. Diego embodies value of guardianship which is so important to UWPD.