The California State University recognizes the remarkable contributions of university police officers and staff whose commitment ensures the safety and well-being of its campuses. Each year, the CSU Chancellor’s Office solicits candidates to receive systemwide recognition for exceptional service in the line of duty and beyond. The individuals are honored by their respective campus leadership through ceremonies and other events.
The annual commendations celebrate the professionalism, courage and humanity of CSU police personnel and university staff, demonstrated through lifesaving actions, creative student engagement and compassionate community support.
“Every day and night, our CSU police officers, 911 dispatchers and staff do tremendous work and are committed to serving our campus communities throughout the state," says Cal State Long Beach Police Chief John Brockie. Brockie also serves on the CSU Council of Police Chiefs as First Chair.
“The actions of these awardees—whether in a moment of crisis or through consistent, quiet excellence—reflect the very best of what university policing should be on our campuses and
remind us all why we strive to provide a safe learning and work environment for all in the CSU system."
"To our officers who have displayed bravery in the face of danger, we salute your courage. To those who have shown compassion and patience in difficult situations, we extend our gratitude for your humanity," Brockie continues. "Congratulations to all the award recipients."
Meet the heroes behind the badge.
Lifesaving Awards
Sacramento State Corporal Jesse Smith receives a Lifesaving Medal from Police Chief Chet Madison Jr.
Corporal Jesse Smith | Sacramento State
Corporal Smith responded to a call involving an unconscious man in a vehicle near the Sacramento State intramural fields. Recognizing signs of an opioid overdose, Corporal Smith administered Narcan with the assistance of Community Service Officers Muhammed Abdullah and Oscar Cacho Mendoza. Their swift and coordinated actions revived the individual, likely saving his life.
Officer Brandon Marantz | Cal State Fullerton
Officer Marantz located a student in crisis sitting on the ledge of a campus parking structure. He safely brought her down and ensured she received mental health support. His actions were instrumental in saving her life and reuniting her with her family.
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From left: Cal State Fullerton Lieutenant Cruz Alday, Administrative Police Services Manager Gwen Dack, Dispatcher Elizabeth Melendez, Officer Jonathan Gama, Dispatcher Nicole Barnagian and Chief of Police Anthony Frisbee.
Officer Jonathan Gama and Dispatchers Nicole Barnagian and Elizabeth Melendez | Cal State Fullerton
Responding to a suicidal individual on a parking structure ledge, Dispatchers Barnagian and Melendez kept the subject engaged until Officer Gama arrived, pulled him to safety and transported him to Placentia Linda Hospital for further evaluation and care. Their teamwork and quick response prevented a tragedy.
From left: Cal State Monterey Bay Police Officer Aaron Duran, Police Chief Yvonne Gordon and Sergeant Elizabeth Miller.
Officer Aaron Duran and Sergeant Elizabeth Miller | Cal State Monterey Bay
After tracing a crisis call, Officer Duran and Sergeant Miller located a student attempting to jump from a highway overpass. Officer Duran physically held the student to prevent her fall until help arrived. Despite the student slipping from her clothing and falling a short distance, the officers' actions prevented a fatal outcome and ensured she received medical care.
Meritorious Service Awards
Sergeant John Bedell, Corporal Steven Nelson and Officer Tongkou Xiong | Cal State Fullerton
The CSUF team responded to a report of an armed individual near student housing. Using de-escalation tactics and coordinated less-lethal options, they safely apprehended the suspect, preventing potential harm to the campus community.
Sergeant Patrick Launi, Sergeant Christopher Brown, Detective Adam Kashe, Officer Kenneth Potts and Officer Brandon Marantz | Cal State Fullerton
This team launched the
Cal State Fullerton Law Enforcement Preparation Academy, a collaborative, year-long program that prepares diverse students for careers in criminal justice. Their efforts support student success and align with CSUF's strategic goals.
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Cal State Fullerton Officer Brandon Marantz speaks with community members on campus. Officer Marantz is part of the team that launched the CSUF Law Enforcement Preparation Academy, and also received a Lifesaving Award this year.
Detective Adam Kashe and Public Affairs Coordinator Marissa Garza | Cal State Fullerton
Detective Kashe and Garza led the 2024 “Shop with a Cop" event, raising more than $5,000 to provide holiday gifts for 25 children from Titan families. Their leadership and compassion brought joy to families and strengthened community bonds.
Lieutenant Janelle Jackson | Cal Poly Humboldt
Lieutenant Jackson demonstrated exceptional compassion by personally supporting students in need—delivering lunches to 100 individuals during the winter break, purchasing a bed for a student and offering mental health support, among other gestures. Her actions reflect the highest values of service and integrity.
From left: Stanislaus State Vice President for Business & Finance and Chief Financial Officer Rose McAuliffe, Interim Police Chief Steve Olson and Lieutenant Adam Deniz.
Lieutenant Adam Deniz | Stanislaus State
As lead investigator in the largest burglary case in campus history, Lieutenant Deniz's meticulous work led to multiple arrests, recovery of stolen property and improved campus security. His dedication safeguarded university assets and reinforced community safety.
The safety and security of CSU students, faculty, staff and visitors is a priority at each of its universities and the Chancellor's Office.
Learn more about Systemwide Campus Safety & Security.