WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Purdue University Police Department has named its new police chief: Lesley Wiete, a 22-year veteran of PUPD who was most recently serving as the department's deputy chief.
“Deputy Chief Wiete’s dedication to this university and our community make her the ideal choice for this vital role,” Purdue President Mitch Daniels said. “Through her experience and proven record during 22 years with PUPD, she has earned the respect of her peers and persistently works to improve processes and relationships. We look forward to her leadership and service.”
Wiete started out as a patrol officer in 1999. She was promoted to sergeant of patrol in 2002, lieutenant of patrol in 2009, captain of administrative services in 2019, and deputy chief of police in 2021.
She earned her bachelor's degree from Purdue, a master's degree from the University of Phoenix and recently graduated from the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command, an intensive leadership and management program for experienced law enforcement officers.
"I am a Purdue grad. That's what brought me here, and I never left. It's been a wonderful decision," Wiete told 13News.
Wiete was named police chief at the conclusion of a nationwide search to fill the role. The search committee narrowed the pool of candidates to three finalists, including Wiete, who met with stakeholders and gave public presentations on campus.
“All three of the final candidates were dedicated professionals, but Deputy Chief Wiete has the essential credentials, the most comprehensive experience, a clear and compelling vision for the future of the department and a strong network of relationships built on years of service to the campus and community," said Jay Wasson, vice president and chief public safety officer.
After more than 22 years in West Lafayette, Wiete knows working on a college campus has its perks.
"It is actually a lot of fun," Wiete said. "Working here keeps you young. I've been here for almost 23 years now, but I don't feel like I've been here that long. The students are so much fun, they are fun to engage with and be around, and they make you feel young. Young at heart."
Despite her tenure at the department, Wiete says she is the same person Purdue hired as a patrol officer in 1999.
"I already know so much about the department and the people that work here," Wiete said. "We already work so fluid together. I don't think we are going to miss too many beats together. We are going to be able to just go into it and work well together. They know what they are getting out of me. As I've moved through the ranks at the police department, I've never changed who I am. They know that."
One goal Wiete brings to the position is launching a social media presence for PUPD, something that has never been done before.
"I am hopeful that we are going to get that accomplished," Wiete said. "I think it would be a great way for us to reach out and engage and communicate with the public and Purdue community."
Wiete will assume the role of chief of PUPD on Thursday, Sept. 1.
When she assumes that role, Purdue will join its fiercest rival — Indiana Univerity — in having a woman leading the university's police department.
Jill Lees was named the chief of police for IUPD in Bloomington in 2019.
In a tweet, Lees congratulated Wiete by saying, "Yay! Congratulations Chief! Well deserved!"
IUPD recently signed a nationwide pledge to bring more women to its police force. It's called the 30x30 initiative, and its goal is to have female officers make up 30% of participating departments by the year 2030.
"I think it is so important to reinforce a positive culture for women," Lees said, "because women make good police officers. Women can do the job."
IUPD joins Bloomington, Carmel, Noblesville and IMPD in signing the pledge.