Michele Haywood is sworn in as the new chief of police and parking services at UW-Stevens Point on Jan. 6. (Metro Wire photo)

Milwaukee police veteran takes reins at UWSP police department

By Brandi Makuski

STEVENS POINT — Michele Haywood was sworn in Jan. 6 as the new chief of police and director of parking services at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, following a lengthy application process that began after former Chief Tony Babl announced his retirement.

Haywood’s appointment follows Babl’s departure after six years as chief. Babl, who joined UWSP in 2018, stepped down at the end of 2024 during a private ceremony. Babl served a total of 31 years in law enforcement, coming to UWSP from the Stevens Point Police Department.

Haywood was sworn in before a roomful of fellow law enforcement officers from UWSP, Stevens Point, Plover, and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, along with university leadership and staff.

UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Tom Gibson formally welcomed Haywood during the event.

“Michelle brings a wealth of experience from her extensive career with the Milwaukee Police Department, where she served in various roles, including officer, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain of the technical communications division,” Gibson said. “Her leadership and dedication to community safety will undoubtedly enhance the security and well-being of our campus community.”

The official swearing-in was conducted by Pratima Gandhi, vice chancellor for business affairs and chief financial officer. Haywood took the oath of office and signed the formal appointment, with her brother, Robert Haywood, performing the badge-pinning ceremony.

In her remarks, Haywood expressed gratitude to the hiring committee for their trust and to her family for their support throughout her career.

“I am deeply honored to stand before you today as the newly appointed chief of police for the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point,” Haywood said. “I am committed to listening, learning, and leading with transparency and compassion, and I look forward to working closely with the dedicated members of the campus police department, as well as with students, faculty, and staff.”

Haywood underscored her commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, emphasizing that safety is about more than enforcement—it requires trust, collaboration, and community engagement.

Gandhi also praised Babl’s service and expressed confidence in Haywood’s ability to continue building strong partnerships across campus and the broader community.

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to stay for refreshments and meet with Haywood.