SUNY Oswego University Police Chief Scott Swayze (center) accepts the SUNY Professional Service Award for University Police on behalf of Officer Scott Maynard, who was out on paternity leave at the time. Presenting the award are SUNY Police Chief’s Association President Paul Burlingame (left) and SUNY Police Commissioner Mary Ritayik.
SUNY Oswego University Police Officer Scott Maynard earned SUNY’s Professional Service Award, an honor which recognizes members for acts that greatly enhance the operation of their respective University Police departments.
Maynard was among the recipients of the 2025 University Police Awards, the highest recognition by the SUNY Police Chiefs Association, SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. announced in December. The annual awards honor investigators, lieutenants, officers, staff and students for their devotion, bravery and unwavering commitment to campus safety.
“It’s always nice to be recognized for our hours and efforts,” Maynard said. “But in all reality, it’s not what I’m doing the work for. I’m doing it because it’s good for everybody on campus and in the community.”
Lt. Kevin Ermann, who nominated Maynard, applauded his “outstanding service, leadership and dedication to both law enforcement and community engagement.”
“Officer Maynard has consistently demonstrated exemplary police work, unwavering dedication and a profound commitment to enhancing the operations and reputation of our department,” Ermann wrote. “His contributions during this period have far exceeded expectations and reflect the highest standards of professionalism and service.”
“Over the last year, Officer Maynard has consistently demonstrated a level of dedication and excellence that truly sets him apart,” University Police Chief Scott Swayze said in support of the nomination. “His contributions as a trainer, traffic safety expert and community liaison have not only enhanced our operational effectiveness but have also significantly strengthened the positive reputation of the SUNY Oswego University Police Department.”
Maynard joined Oswego’s University Police as a dispatcher in 2014 before joining the officer ranks around a decade ago, graduating from the CNY Regional Law Enforcement Academy in Onondaga County.
The nomination noted the sizable amount of work Maynard now contributes to the Oswego County Sheriff’s Police Academy, providing training as a leader or assistant. In the previous year, Maynard logged 139 hours of instructor time for rising law enforcement professionals.
Focus on safety
He enjoys going to the academy to teach and help train newer professionals in how to do things the right way across many areas. That has included training others on a variety of technology and techniques, often focusing on tasks and tools related to traffic safety –- one of his top responsibilities with the university.
“At the end of the day, any traffic enforcement that we do is related to safety,” Maynard explained. “Or goal is to make sure everybody gets home safely, drivers and pedestrians.”
Beyond his key roles in training and leadership, Maynard is a key contributor to community service and outreach campaigns.
“Officer Maynard has made a significant impact in the realm of community policing,” Ermann noted. “He has actively participated in numerous campus and community events, playing a key role in our recruitment efforts and fostering positive relationships with the public. His involvement in fundraisers and awareness campaigns -- such as the Trooper Trot and the Special Olympics Torch Run -- reflects his dedication to service beyond the badge.”
In presenting the awards, Chancellor King and others noted the unique and vital role that SUNY police officers and others play in everyday safety and security.
"SUNY's University police officers are an integral part of our campus communities and an essential element of our commitment to student safety," Chancellor King said. "I am grateful for their dedication to ensuring that our campuses remain safe and nurturing environments for all. Congratulations to this year’s recipients and thank you to all of our University police officers for working to safeguard our campus communities so students can pursue their dreams without fear."
“These awards showcase the bravery, professionalism and commitment that our officers have for their SUNY campus communities, and I thank Chancellor King for recognizing our University Police and students,” New York State University Police Commissioner Mary Ritayik said. "Their hard work and dedication are commendable and should not go unnoticed."
In nominating Maynard, Ermann noted that many people have noticed his positive contributions.
“The department has received multiple letters from community members commending Officer Maynard’s courtesy, professionalism and respectful demeanor,” Ermann wrote. “These testimonials are a testament to the positive influence he has on both the public and our department’s culture.”
Working at SUNY Oswego is unique because nearly a quarter of the campus community is new every year, while almost the same number of people graduate every year having learned many lessons in classrooms and in life, Maynard said.
“Everybody gets into the job because they want to help people,” Maynard said. “That’s where I am because I wanted to help people and help my community. What we do here doesn't just affect the community here, as we have a melting pot of students from all over the state, the country and the world. How we interact and how we do our job has a huge effect.”