Utah Valley University President Jon Anderson announced the appointment of former Utah Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Rapich as the university's new chief safety officer on Monday, October 26, 2026. Rapich, who served 33 years with the Utah Highway Patrol including nine years as its commander, will oversee campus safety operations and lead efforts to strengthen the university's safety infrastructure.
According to the announcement, Rapich is tasked with fostering a culture of safety, enhancing emergency preparedness, and leading efforts to strengthen the university's safety infrastructure. The role is designed to coordinate campus police, emergency management, fire safety, and campus and event security. The university stated that the chief safety officer will also oversee the implementation of recommendations from a recent safety review.
President Jon Anderson stated that fostering a safe and supportive learning environment is one of the university's highest priorities. Anderson noted that Rapich brings decades of public safety leadership and sound judgment to the role. He added that Rapich's experience and collaborative approach will strengthen how the university prepares, responds, and works together to serve the campus community.
The creation of the chief safety officer position follows an independent safety review released by UVU on Sept. 25 regarding events surrounding the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk was killed in a fatal shooting on Sept. 10, 2025, when he was targeted by a sniper on a UVU building roof while speaking to an audience in an outdoor area. Washington city resident Tyler Robinson, who has pleaded not guilty, faces trial for the murder, though a trial date has not yet been set.
Rapich expressed excitement about the opportunity to engage with students and faculty to define and promote a safe and secure learning environment. He stated his intention to work with UVU public safety professionals and surrounding communities to ensure the campus remains a trusted place for learning, growth, and engagement.
