Keeping Bearcats Safe: A Conversation with UC Police Chief Eliot Isaac

In this episode of Bridging the Gap, hosts Darryn Chenault and Kelly Cantwell sit down with University of Cincinnati Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Eliot Isaac for an in-depth conversation about leadership, service, and keeping an urban campus safe. With 37 years in law enforcement—including serving as Chief of the Cincinnati Police Department—Chief Isaac reflects on his journey from patrol officer to city chief, and now to leading the University of Cincinnati Public Safety Department. He shares what inspired him to continue serving after retiring from CPD, what makes campus policing unique, and how his deep roots in Cincinnati shape his approach to protecting students, faculty, and staff. The conversation explores the realities of safety at an urban university. Chief Isaac explains how UCPD works closely with CPD through a memorandum of understanding that allows for seamless collaboration and coordinated response in the neighborhoods surrounding campus. Listeners will also hear about proactive safety efforts, community engagement, expanding the university’s footprint in key areas, and the broader scope of public safety—from fire prevention to access control. Above all, Chief Isaac emphasizes a simple but powerful philosophy: be helpful, stay engaged, and always put the community's safety first. Whether you’re a student, parent, staff member, or community partner, this episode offers an inside look at how UC is working every day to create a safer, stronger campus community.