College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Fellow

Michael G. Sullivan ’94, ’11

Michael Sullivan is a nationally respected public safety leader with continued connection to the University of Louisville. A two-time graduate of the university, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Police Administration and a Master of Science in Administration of Justice. Sullivan also completed the Southern Police Institute's 119th Administrative Officers Course.

In 2025, following a nationwide search, Sullivan was selected to serve as Chief of the United States Capitol Police, which safeguards the legislative process at the heart of American democracy. He leads 2,800 sworn and civilian employees, oversees a nearly $1 billion budget and manages the operations responsible for protecting the United States Congress.

Through more than three decades of service, Sullivan has served in senior executive positions in Louisville, Baltimore, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. He has earned recognition for guiding organizations through significant operational and organizational challenges, advancing violence-reduction strategies, strengthening accountability systems and improving relationships between law enforcement agencies and the community members they serve.

Sullivan is a proud ambassador for the University of Louisville and has encouraged numerous law enforcement professionals to pursue leadership development through the Southern Police Institute and advanced education at U of L, helping extend the university's influence on public safety leadership across the nation. Many officers mentored by Sullivan have completed both SPI programs and degree programs at the university.

As a trusted and respected voice, Sullivan contributes to national conversations on policing reform, youth engagement, officer development and public safety policy. His expertise is shared through teaching, publications, board service and advisory roles with professional and governmental organizations. His service is nationally recognized, and Sullivan was awarded the Police Executive Research Forum's Gary P. Hayes Award for innovation and leadership in policing.