UofL Alumnus and Criminal Justice Leader Named U.S. Capitol Police Chief

The University of Louisville’s College of Arts & Sciences is proud to celebrate alumnus Michael G. Sullivan—a graduate of both the Bachelor of Science in Police Administration and the Master of Science in Justice Administration programs in the Department of Criminal Justice—on his appointment as the next Chief of the United States Capitol Police. 

With more than 30 years of law enforcement leadership in Louisville, Baltimore, and Phoenix, Sullivan has built a national reputation for driving reform, fostering transparency, and strengthening community and institutional trust.  

His foundation in policing began right here at UofL, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1994, followed by advanced training in police executive leadership through the Southern Police Institute's (SPI) Administrative Officers Course in 2008, and a master’s degree in 2011. He was a member of SPI’s 119th Administrative Officers Course. 

Sullivan began his career with the Louisville Division of Police in 1995, rising through the ranks to become Deputy Chief of the Louisville Metro Police Department  from 2016 to 2019.  

His leadership path then took him to Baltimore as Deputy Commissioner, and most recently to Phoenix, where he served as Interim Chief of Police, guiding the department through major reforms and a Department of Justice investigation. 

Throughout his career, Sullivan has consistently advanced national conversations around policing reform and public accountability. His accolades include the Gary P. Hayes Award from the Police Executive Research Forum and leadership roles with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, including its Human and Civil Rights Committee. 

For prospective students considering a future in criminal justice, Sullivan’s journey highlights the power of a UofL education—both in the classroom and through nationally respected institutes like the Southern Police Institute—to open doors to meaningful leadership on the national stage. 

Sullivan was officially sworn in as Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police on June 30, 2025. 

 🔗 Read more about Chief Sullivan’s appointment in the official press release.