With over three decades of experience, Chief Griffin-Kitzerow brings a powerful combination of law enforcement leadership and psychological insight into her role as chief of police.

In May 2025, she earned her doctoral degree in forensic psychology, adding to an already impressive academic portfolio that includes three master’s degrees — in psychology, public administration, and forensic psychology — as well as a bachelor’s degree in organizational management.

Before joining UCF, Chief Griffin-Kitzerow served as deputy chief at Florida Atlantic University and spent two decades in leadership with the Palm Beach County School District, where she developed a proactive strategy to identify and manage potential threats before they could escalate. She later used this same strategy to support and enhance UCF’s already robust Threat Management Team when she joined the agency as deputy chief in 2022.

Her leadership extends beyond campus. She was recently elected president of the Central Florida Criminal Justice Association and serves on the boards of Central Florida Cares and the Central Florida Intelligence Exchange.

She makes history as UCF’s first-ever “Dr. Chief” — a title that reflects not only her academic excellence but also her unwavering dedication to service, safety, and the next generation of public safety leaders.