Kathy Zoner was sworn in yesterday as the chief of the Cornell University Police Department, becoming the first woman to hold the position since its inception. Zoner, who had served as the interim chief since May 20, was sworn in by retiring chief Curtis S. Ostrander at an impromptu ceremony at the Crash Fire Rescue building at the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport.

“We are thrilled that Kathy Zoner has accepted the position as chief,” Vice President for Human Resources Mary Opperman said in a statement yesterday. “Throughout her career, she has provided leadership for new department initiatives while building strong relationships with Cornell students, faculty and staff,”

Zoner’s appointment and the swearing in ceremony occurred within hours of each other. According to Zoner, this was an attempt to solidify the department after its recent consolidation under the umbrella of Human Resources. Before Nov. 1, the department reported to the Executive Vice President of Risk Management and Public safety, a position eliminated to help streamline the central administration and cut operating costs.

In her new position as chief, Zoner will be responsible for the organization, deployment and administration of all law enforcement personnel. She will also have a significant impact on the budgetary process, oversight of police functions and the crafting of future departmental policy.

“The former chief had set the department on a path of professionalism and community outreach. I hope to continue this as chief, identifying law enforcement challenges of the community and working to resolve them,” Zoner said yesterday.

“Kathy Zoner is a superb leader and brings strong managerial experience and deep knowledge of police work to her new post,” President David Skorton said in a statement. “Cornell Police duties range from the routine to planning for visits from heads of state to handling tragic circumstances in our campus and community. Under her leadership, Cornell Police will continue its role as a national leader in campus law enforcement and safety.”

Zoner has been a member of the Cornell police department since 1991. She was promoted to captain and assistant director of the department in 2005 and deputy chief in 2007. Throughout her years on the force, Zoner was a key figure in the collaboration between the Cornell Police and student groups, serving on the Events Management team from 1997 to 2001. In addition to her work with the CUPD, Zoner has served on the board and as president of Ithaca Rape Crisis, a non-profit counseling group for the victims of sexual assault or harassment. In 2003, the Tompkins County Human Rights Commission awarded her with the Michael Padula Award for her advocacy of diversity and human rights.

“I am thrilled with the opportunity that the University has given me, and I am proud to lead this fantastic team of law enforcement professionals as we continue our mission of service to Cornell,” Zoner said in a press statement.