A former United States Park Police official was selected as the new chief of the University Police Department, the University announced Monday.

Kevin Hay – who most recently served as deputy chief of the United States Park Police – was selected as the replacement for former UPD Chief Dolores Stafford – who retired in May after 18 years at the University.

Hay has served the Park Police since 1984, becoming the deputy chief of the Park Police force in 2008, where he led 300 officers in both the District and New York City, protecting national landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Statue of Liberty, both of which see millions of tourists and visitors every year. During his career he has earned more than 100 commendations, awards and letters of appreciation.

Hay – who assumes the new role on Sept. 7 – has a master’s in public administration from the University of San Francisco, and graduated from the FBI National Academy. He also holds an associate of arts  degree from Richard Bland College  of  the College of William & Mary and a  B.S. degree in recreation administration from Radford University.