Honoring those who keep the campus community safe and secure
LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 12, 2026) — The University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) is honoring the service, sacrifice and dedication of law enforcement professionals across the country during National Police Week, May 10-16.
National Police Week provides an opportunity to reflect on the vital role officers play in protecting the campus and UK community. UKPD officers, communication officers, security officers and professional staff work to ensure a safe, welcoming environment where students, faculty, staff and visitors can enjoy everything UK brings to Lexington.
“Our department continues to grow, not just in size, but in the way we serve and connect with our campus community,” said Police Chief Joe Monroe. “National Police Week allows us to pause and recognize the commitment our team brings to this work every day.”
Throughout the week, UKPD is taking time to show appreciation for its personnel and to honor fallen officers nationwide who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The observance underscores UKPD’s commitment to service, professionalism and partnership.
UKPD encourages the campus community to join in recognizing National Police Week by thanking officers when you see them around campus and learning more about the work they do each day. Together, we celebrate those who serve, remember those who have been lost and look ahead to a strong future of safety and progress at the University of Kentucky.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.