Security Officer Tonya Hilliard has served the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD) for 20 years! She can currently be found in the Bressler Research Building, but she’s served all across the University. 

Hilliard joined the department so she could use the tuition remission benefit to send her children to college. Hilliard is proud to say that she also earned her degree in criminal justice! 

Recently, Hilliard was recognized by the University of Maryland School of Medicine for its “I <3 SOM” campaign. “It was memorable to be recognized,” she says. “They made me the face of public safety for their building!”

Hilliard enjoys meeting and interacting with new people. “My advice for new students would be: Remember to keep a smile and treat all with kindness!” Hilliard says. “Focus on your goals.”

In her spare time, Hilliard likes to spend time with family, cook, and roller skate. She hopes to one day retire with an interior decorating and catering business.