The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of SIU at Carbondale. Except during vacations and exam weeks,
The Daily Egyptian is published Monday through Friday during the fall and
spring semesters and TWThF during the summer semester."
After narrowing down a nationwide search for a new director of the
University's Department of Public Safety, Catherine Hagler, executive
director of administration announced Tuesday the position has been
filled.
Todd Sigler, a veteran of the department and SIUC alumnus, begins his
duties as director today and said he is flattered to have been chosen.
"It's extremely honoring," he said. "It's something you plan for in your
career and you never know if it's going to happen. It's very
flattering."
Sigler succeeds former director Samuel Jordan, who retired in December,
and Kay Doan, who acted as interim director.
Hagler said the decision was based on a number of things and Sigler was
the candidate who "was recognized and supported by the majority of those
who interviewed and interacted with him."
Three finalists were involved in the interview process, which began in
July and included various panels, forums and interviews. Hagler said
recommendations from University administrators, directors and
chancellors, as well as the Department of Public Safety and the
Carbondale Police Department were used in making the decision.
"Personally, I thought he was the most well-rounded and had the kind of
experience we were looking for," Hagler said. "He is open to making
changes where change is needed and building upon the existing strength
of the department."
Working to improve the number of minority and women officers is
important to the University and according to Hagler, is something Sigler
has committed to do. She said he will be working closely with the Office
of Diversity to develop programs to enhance a diverse police staff.
"We do have minority and female officers already working on the staff,"
Hagler said. "But we'd like have the staff represent the students and
the staff we serve."
Addressing budgetary issues and practicing community policing are two
challenges Sigler said he has to look forward to as director.
"I would like to continue to move forward and do more with less, which
is always challenging," he said. "But I look forward to those
challenges."
Hagler said Sigler's law enforcement experience, background and
communication skills make her confident in his ability to serve as
director.
Sigler earned a bachelor's degree in administration of justice and a
master's degree in public affairs, both from SIUC. He is currently a
doctoral candidate in education administration and higher education.
In 1985, Sigler began his law enforcement career at the University. He
then worked as an investigator with the Illinois Secretary of State
Police from 1988 to 1990. He returned to the University and worked as
corporal, sergeant and lieutenant before he became captain of the
Uniformed Patrol Division and Organization Development and Support
Services in 2003.
Sigler said he excited to start his duties today and continue to work
with "the fabulous individuals at the department." However, there is one
thing Sigler is not looking forward to-moving offices.
As director, Sigler's office is in a different building and said he will
be going through a transition period as he moves files and takes on more
job duties.
"I have a full plate," he said. "And I think it will be getting fuller."
Daily Egyptian 
