Utah Valley University (UVU) announced that Jeffrey Long, a military veteran and law enforcement professional, has been appointed as the university’s new chief of police.

With over 30 years of experience in law enforcement and public safety, Long has a strong record of leadership and service. He joined UVU in 2022 as deputy chief of police, where he has played a key role in maintaining campus safety, managing officer training, and collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

“Jeff Long’s dedication makes him an exceptional fit for this role at UVU,” said Val Peterson, UVU’s vice president of Administration and Strategic Relations. “With his military and law enforcement history and commitment to campus safety, he is fully prepared to support our students, faculty, and staff.”

Before coming to UVU, Long served as a police lieutenant at Brigham Young University, where he managed budget goals, directed department trainings, and coordinated discipline issues. He also spent over 20 years with the Orem City Police Department, including his role as a special victims unit supervisor and firearms instructor.

In addition to his extensive law enforcement career, Long is a United States Army and Air Force veteran. He served 25 years in the military reserves, including two deployments to Afghanistan, where he earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for bravery and for being wounded in combat. His military experience as a platoon sergeant and security police supervisor provided him with the proper leadership skills for his new position at UVU.

Long holds a master’s degree in public administration from Brigham Young University and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from UVU. As the university grows, Long’s role will support students, faculty, and staff to feel secure on campus.