Eric Stickel was formally sworn in this week as chief of the Cornell University Police Department, marking a new chapter in a career that began more than 17 years ago when he joined the department as a patrol officer.
The ceremony took place Jan. 21 in Friends Hall overlooking Schoellkopf Field. Stickel’s children pinned his chief’s badge to his uniform before he took the oath of office, pledging to lead with integrity and protect the Cornell community.
Stickel had been serving as interim chief since September, following the departure of former Chief Anthony Bellamy, who left to become deputy chief of the Ithaca Police Department. A Lansing native and current resident, Stickel told attendees that campus policing requires a balance of safety, trust, and compassion.
“My commitment is simple: We will serve with integrity and professionalism, and treat every person with dignity and respect,” Stickel said. “When we build trust, listen and engage with the people we serve, our community is safer, stronger and more unified.”
David Honan, Cornell’s associate vice president for public safety and a former police chief, administered the oath and praised Stickel’s leadership style. Honan said Stickel has consistently demonstrated accountability, transparency, and a commitment to community-based policing.
University leaders also cited Stickel’s role in strengthening partnerships and trust across campus. Officials noted the department’s evolving approach to public safety, including the use of public safety ambassadors and the Community Response Team to address emergencies and mental health crises.
Over his career, Stickel has held several leadership roles within the department, including operations sergeant, training sergeant, lieutenant, and deputy chief. He has received multiple honors, including a STOP-DWI Award of Excellence and recognition for assisting a fellow officer during a life-threatening emergency.
Stickel holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Lycoming College and is currently enrolled in the University of Virginia’s Master of Public Safety program. He has also completed advanced training through the FBI National Academy and FBI-LEEDA programs.
Outside of work, Stickel is active in the Lansing community, coaching youth soccer and wrestling and serving as the girls’ soccer coach at Lansing High School.
In closing remarks, Stickel thanked his colleagues and emphasized that leadership is rooted in service rather than title. He said he is honored to lead the department and committed to supporting the safety and success of the Cornell community.
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