The University of Colorado Colorado Springs has hired its next campus police chief.

Diana Cooley was announced as the new chief by the university Wednesday. She was officially hired on Sept. 5 and her first day will be Oct. 1.

“I’m excited about this opportunity and looking forward to being a part of the UCCS community,” Cooley said in a school announcement. “It is my commitment to campus that transparent leadership and cutting-edge policing practices will define my approach in this role.”

Cooley has most recently served as Commander of Patrol Operations with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Police Department since July 2023.

Prior to this, she spent 16 years with the Aurora Police Department, serving in various positions and has also worked as deputy commander of the Internal Affairs Bureau where she led investigations into police conduct and ensured that complaints against the department were thoroughly and impartially reviewed.

UCCS spokesperson Chris Valentine told the Gazette that, in addition to her other qualifications, Cooley’s prior experience on a UC campus made her an ideal candidate for the open position.

“I am thrilled to welcome Diana to campus,” UCCS Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Kathy Kaoudis said in the news release.

Cooley will report directly to the vice chancellor.

“She is committed to driving innovation in public safety, enhancing crisis preparedness, and fostering proactive and transparent community engagement,” Kaoudis continued. “Diana is a fantastic addition to the UCCS family, and I am looking forward to seeing what she accomplishes here.”

During the prior academic year, a double homicide occurred in a campus dorm room and the subsequent investigation by law enforcement led to community concerns regarding public updates and overall communication by law enforcement.

Cooley’s appointment comes following former police chief DeWayne McCarver’s resignation July 5 to be closer to family in Alabama. UCCS Deputy Chief Clay Garner acted as the interim chief prior to Cooley’s hiring.

Cooley has also completed several leadership programs, including the Senior Management Institute for Police through the Executive Research Forum and the Executive Leadership Institute through the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association.

She currently serves on the Executive Council for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Colorado and also holds the role of Logistics Chief with the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation.