“I am excited to welcome Tony to the Quinnipiac community,” said Tom Ellett, chief experience officer, who announced the appointment. “Tony has extensive experience at every level of public safety and community service that will position him for success as chief in a university setting. Tony's commitment to excellence, fairness, equity, and inclusion in leading the Department of Public Safety aligns well with the university’s values. I look forward to partnering with him and the important role he and his department play in assuring a safe, welcoming and caring environment for our students.”

In his new role, Reyes will oversee Quinnipiac’s Department of Public Safety, and will be responsible for: developing and implementing policies and procedures advancing safety and well-being on the university’s three campuses; ensuring compliance with all reporting requirements; collaborating with faculty, staff and students to offer educational programs and public safety services; and serving as a liaison with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. He also will manage patrol services, communications and information services for the department, facilities and residential security, investigations, crime prevention programs, and emergency and disaster preparedness.

“I am excited to join the Quinnipiac University family to partner with all stakeholders in providing a safe and welcoming environment for the entire university community, and to be a part of the educational mission of the university,” said Reyes.

Reyes announced he will be retiring as chief after a 21-year career with the New Haven Police Department. Reyes will transition to Quinnipiac at a mutually convenient date to both the university and the City of New Haven.

Reyes is a New Haven native and first joined the department as a patrol officer in 2000 and worked his way up through the ranks before being appointed chief in 2019. A graduate of the FBI National Academy, Reyes is certified by the FBI as a hostage negotiator and has FEMA certifications from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Reyes is not a newcomer to educational environments. He holds a master of public administration from the University of New Haven, a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia, and serves as a faculty member teaching criminal justice undergraduate and graduate courses at the University of New Haven.