Jill Voltmer, police chief

A St. Joseph native and veteran police officer has been named chief of the Missouri Western State University Police Department. Jill Voltmer has worked for the Missouri Western police since June, 2017. Before that, she spent 24 years in the Patrol and Detective Divisions of the St. Joseph Police Department, including more than 15 years as a sergeant.

“I am excited to have someone with Jill’s level of expertise fill this position,” said Dr. Cale Fessler, vice president for financial planning and administration. “Her knowledge and experience will serve the University well.”

“I am honored to be chosen for this position and I look forward to this next chapter of my career leading the Missouri Western State University Police Department in serving and protecting the University community in my hometown of St. Joseph. Go Griffs!” Voltmer said.

While on the St. Joseph Police Department, Voltmer supervised the family crimes unit of detectives, worked on the sexual assault and family violence council, worked with members of the community, supervised and evaluated police officers and worked as acting commander in the commander’s absence. She has been honored for her police work multiple times, most recently receiving the Officer of the Year Award from the Optimist Club earlier this year.

Voltmer graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska after receiving her high school diploma from Bishop LeBlond High School in St. Joseph.

As Missouri Western’s police chief, Voltmer will supervise University Police personnel and manage all law enforcement, security, traffic and parking functions on campus.

Voltmer began her duties as police chief Sept. 6.

Missouri Western State University is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university offers student-centered, high quality instruction that focuses on experience-based learning, community service, and state-of-the-art technology. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.