Kim Sigond: A Model in Community Policing

 

Seven women are currently among the ranks of the University Police Department (UPD) -- the most at any one time in its 37-year history. They are investigators, police officers and inspectors. Each has her own background and story. But what they share is a dedication to creating a peaceful and safe environment for UAlbany students in order to enhance the quality of the academic life.

After 25 years as an officer with the University Police Department (UPD), Kim Sigond has just about seen it all. That doesn't mean Sigond thinks she has all the answers. But it is an indication of the level of knowledge and expertise she brings to UPD.

"Kim is the epitome of a good police officer," said UPD Chief J. Frank Wiley. "It has been through her efforts and leadership that positive change has been affected and her actions serve as a textbook example of how community policing should be done."

When on duty, Sigond is all business. Still, even after more than two decades, she gets a rush of adrenaline every time she gets the call for help. Today, she works day shifts patrolling the University at Albany's downtown campus. During N.Y. Giants summer training camp at UAlbany, Sigond often helps with crowd control and escorting players to the practice field and back.

Sigond has come a long way since her start in 1984, working the midnight to 7 a.m. shift. Like many, Sigond, an Albany native, was drawn by the excitement of a career in law enforcement. Knowing that no two days would be alike was appealing to her.
 
"You never know what you're going to have to handle, so you have to be prepared for anything," said Sigond. "Preparation comes with experience. You need good judgment, communication skills and the ability to make decisions very quickly."

At age 50, Sigond is the senior woman officer in UPD and one of seven women currently among the ranks of the Department -- the most at any one time in its 37-year history. Sigond is pleased that police departments have become much more diverse over the years, noting that it�s a better reflection and representation of the community protected by them.

"Back when I started in the early '80s, having women in law enforcement was not traditionally accepted," said Sigond. "Now, we don't have that other barrier to break down. As long as you can do your job, you're accepted by your peers very quickly."

Over the years, Sigond has demonstrated the highest levels of service to the UAlbany community and UPD's mission. She has garnered countless awards, including the Department's Officer of the Year Award and the Lawrence E. Gall Award for excellence in exhibiting excellence in police services.

"I enjoy it, I love it. I like the people I work with," said Sigond. "Through the years, I've enjoyed what I was doing and felt like I was accomplishing something, and I hope that continues."

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