Upholding a Commitment to Safety, Leadership and Service

On Friday, Feb. 28, University of the Incarnate Word President Dr. Thomas M. Evans swore in John B. Catts III as UIWPD's Chief of Police. The UIW Police Department has served the UIW Community for nearly 32 years. 

During his career, Chief Catts served in the United States Navy, worked for 31 years with San Antonio Independent School District Police Department and has spearheaded efforts to reimagine public safety through community-based programming. Catts previously served the UIW campuses as interim chief, but he was ready to officially take on the title of chief.

Founded in 1993, UIWPD has continuously strived to provide effective support, public assistance and a safe environment through safety awareness and law enforcement for UIW campus communities (my.uiw.edu/police). At the ceremony, officers dressed in the ceremonial regalia and dispatchers stood proudly in front of Catts, recited their oaths of office and demonstrated their support as they welcomed their new Chief. 

Edward Prado, UIWPD lieutenant, served as the event’s master of ceremonies and thanked attendees for their support, expressing how their attendance is a testament to the strength of the University’s shared commitment to safety, leadership and service.

The community was led in prayer by Sr. Walter Maher, CCVI, vice president of Mission & Ministry. Guests joined voices to pray over Catts, asking God to watch over and guide him as he faithfully serves the University and its community. “Grant him courage when he is afraid, wisdom when he must make quick decisions, strength when he is weary and compassion in all his work,” prayed Sr. Walter.

Dr. Evans expressed his gratitude for all the efforts Catts had invested in serving UIW thus far, and his certainty that he will continue to do so in the future. He acknowledged that through Catts’ and UIWPD’s efforts, the University continues to be a protected place where students can learn, develop and go out into the world as living representations of the Word. 

“He (Catts) comes to this role with a heart for service,” said Evans. “Here at UIW, he works to partner with our students and community members to help maintain a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment where we all can thrive. To the men and women of our University Police Department, I want to express my gratitude. Your work is often unseen, but today, we take a moment to shine light on your dedication, your bravery and your commitment to your University … As you (Catts) assume this vital role, know that you have our full support.”

Catts was joined by his mother Mary McCord, his son, John Anthony Catts, and his beloved wife Mrs. Lupe Catts as he placed his hand on a Holy Bible to officially take his oath as UIW’s Chief of Police. His fellow officers and telecommunicators followed his lead, proclaiming their dedication towards serving the Incarnate Word family.

“First and foremost, I want to thank God for opening up this door and giving me the strength to walk the path that has been laid out before me,” said Catts. “Our role as a student-centered, community-based police department is to provide the safety and security that enable learning, growth and innovation to thrive. I'm committed to fostering open communication, transparency and collaboration with each of you so that together we can address challenges proactively and continue building a community grounded in trust, respect and shared values. I look forward to ensuring that our goals remain closely connected to UIW’s vision and values, and I'm excited to work alongside you to make this University a model of safety, inclusion and excellence to the members of the UIW community.”

Congratulations, Chief Catts!