A hero remembered

Last week, our community lost a hero with the passing of IU Police Chief Keith Cash.

As students, we benefited from the chief’s unwavering commitment to providing a safe campus.

He was a professional police officer who worked closely with student leaders and student media to keep us informed of the issues that affect our safety.

Chief Cash had a reputation as a cop’s chief who never forgot where he came from.

A graduate of the cadet program himself, Chief Cash was truly a cadet’s chief. As cadets, we came to know a leader who cared deeply for the men and women of IUPD.

Not only was Chief Cash always approachable, he made an effort to get to know each of us. If the chief saw us working a cold, rainy day in the auditorium parking lot, we could count on him to come check in on us.

He didn’t demand respect, he earned it with an active leadership style and genuine personality.

Monday, we had the privilege of attending the Chief’s Celebration of Life, along with hundreds of police officers, firefighters and federal agents from the FBI, U.S. Marshals, DEA and Secret Service.

The bond these men and women shared with the chief extends across the country and throughout the decades.

Their outpouring of support was a testament to the size of Keith Cash’s heart and his unwavering dedication to the success of each and every individual he met.

Chief, for three decades you gave your life to your officers, your department and your University. Rest in peace, sir.

­— 2012-13
IU Police Department
Cadet Class