University of Montevallo police officer JaRon Thomas has been honored by his peers as the department’s Officer of the Year for the dedication he shows in keeping the University’s students, faculty and staff safe each day.
Thomas was recognized as the Officer of the Year during The Shelby County Chamber’s 2019 Safety Awards Luncheon at the Pelham Civic Complex and enjoyed a reception in his honor at UM on Oct. 15.
Thomas joined the UMPD in July 2016, and quickly established himself as one of the most professional, hardest-working officers at the department, said Police Chief Tim Alexander.
“He is very engaged, has the best interest of the students at heart and is respected by faculty and staff,” Alexander said.
Alexander said Thomas has become a role model and mentor for newer officers, regularly volunteers to cover extra shifts for coworkers and is well-liked within the department. Thomas has spent the majority of his time at the department working day shift, but recently volunteered to work night shift so he could more closely mentor newer officers.
“The UMPD would like to thank officer Thomas for his dedicated service to the University of Montevallo and the citizens of the Montevallo community,” Alexander said.
