New Chief of Police

Fr: Lynne Schaefer, Vice President, Administration and Finance

It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Mark W. Sparks as the new chief of police, effective August 2.

Sparks comes to us from the University of Maryland, College Park where he has served with great distinction for the past nearly 30 years, most recently serving as interim chief of police. Chief Sparks brings a wealth of experience gained in positions with ever increasing responsibilities in all aspects of campus law enforcement.  He has led efforts to improve the College Park Department of Public Safety in such areas as crime prevention, department accreditation, diversity and emergency operations, among many others. He is the recipient of both a Medal of Valor for Bravery and the Purple Heart.

Our new chief earned a bachelor’s of science in criminal justice from the University of Delaware, and a master of applied management from University of Maryland University College. His selection as chief came following a national search process and extensive on campus interviews with students, staff and faculty leaders.

I add a note of deep gratitude to Interim Police Chief John Cook, who graciously came out of retirement to serve UMBC in this role while the search process was completed.

Join me in providing a warm welcome to our new Chief Mark Sparks.