Michigan State University Welcomes New Chief of Police and Executive Director of Public Safety

November 14, 2024

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[East Lansing, MI] – Michigan State University (MSU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Yankowski as the new Police Chief and Executive Director of Public Safety. With over 30 years of experience in law enforcement and institutional ethics and compliance, Mike Yankowski brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our campus community. 

 “I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to help steward and lead one of the finest university police departments in the country. Our time in this noble profession is a gift and I’m excited about the opportunity to serve in this role. The dedicated members of the MSU DPPS take great pride in keeping the MSU Community safe, and I look forward to continuing to build strong partnerships”, said Chief of Police and Executive Director of Public Safety, Mike Yankowski.  

He has held various significant roles throughout his career, including Police Chief, Police Captain, Police Lieutenant, and Police Sergeant at the Lansing Police Department. His extensive background also includes serving as the Institutional Ethics and Compliance Assistant Director at MSU since 2019. In these roles, Mike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic oversight, and a commitment to fostering an ethical and accountable environment. 

“Mike will be a strong leader as our new Chief of Police and Executive Director of Public Safety,” said President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “His broad experience in law enforcement and compliance and his insight into our university’s structure make him a valuable addition to MSU DPPS, and I am confident he will help bolster our efforts to foster a campus environment that is safe and welcoming for all.”  

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Media Contact: 
Nadia Vizueta, Communications Manager, Michigan State University Police and Public Safety 
517-282-3711 | Vizuetan@dpps.msu.edu