After 37 years in law enforcement, Carl Metzger ’03MS has retired from his role as associate vice president of public safety at the University of Central Florida (UCF). Metzger’s retirement follows an 11-year tenure at UCF, during which he held several leadership positions, including chief of police.
At a recent celebration marking his retirement, Metzger reflected on his career and the importance of relationships formed over the years. “Working in law enforcement isn’t always easy, but it’s the relationships you build along the way that make it all worthwhile,” said Metzger. He added, “The one thing that stands out the most is the people.”
Metzger began his career with the Orlando Police Department as a patrol officer and eventually became commander of its patrol services bureau. In 2014, he joined UCF Police Department (UCFPD) as deputy chief over operations and was promoted to chief in 2018 after Chief Emeritus Richard Beary retired. In summer 2025, Metzger stepped down as chief but continued serving as associate vice president for public safety.
During his time as chief, Metzger managed UCF’s response to several hurricanes and oversaw security for major events such as ESPN’s College GameDay and Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff. He also played a key role during UCF’s transition into the Big 12 Conference, which increased game day operational demands.
Metzger prioritized enhanced active threat response training and campus security improvements. Under his leadership, officers participated in annual crisis simulations designed to provide realistic training experiences. Campus security infrastructure was upgraded with more cameras and access control systems; now most buildings can be locked down instantly if needed.
Speakers at Metzger’s farewell event highlighted his leadership style. Student Government President Luci Blanco said: “You have led with a steady hand and an open heart, always putting people first. You have modeled what it means to lead with empathy and to serve with grace, and I think that is the greatest legacy any leader can leave behind.”
Newly appointed UCF Chief of Police Robin Griffin-Kitzerow also acknowledged Metzger’s influence: “Some shoes aren’t meant to be filled because they are as unique and special as the person who wore them,” she said. “We can never replace you, but we’ll continue on the path you set and remain grateful for the lessons that inspired our growth and helped make UCFPD a premier law enforcement agency.”
Beyond operational duties, Metzger advocated for mental health initiatives within law enforcement. He led efforts making UCFPD the first agency in Central Florida where all sworn officers completed crisis intervention training focused on responding compassionately to mental health crises. He organized suicide prevention programs—including QPR trainings—and participated in awareness activities such as NAMI’s annual 5K walk.
Metzger also served on boards supporting mental health organizations like National Alliance on Mental Illness of Greater Orlando and Central Florida Cares.
As he concluded his service at UCF, Metzger expressed gratitude toward colleagues: “Thank you to my public safety family for 11 years of teamwork and service,” he said. “Together, we built what I believe is the most professional campus public safety department in the nation, with a culture of caring and excellence that is second to none.”
