Of the Year’ Recipients Shine at 14th Annual Promotions and Awards Ceremony: Volume 3

The 14th Annual Promotions and Awards Ceremony recognized outstanding members across the division, celebrating excellence, leadership and service through its “Of The Year” recipients. This series introduces you to our team members who received these awards.

Team members may nominate their colleagues for the division’s Of The Year awards, with final selections made by the leadership team.

Precision, Persistence and a Team-First Mindset

Investigator of the Year James Gonzales earned recognition for his leadership and teamwork, as noted by supervisor Matthew Cardenas. Investigator Gonzales also won this award in 2020 and 2022.

“Detective James Gonzales consistently exemplifies UT Police core values through his exceptional service to the Investigations team,” Senior Detective Cardenas said. “Known for his leadership, maturity, and team-first attitude, Detective Gonzales has become a trusted mentor to officers throughout the division.”

Whether caring for his fellow officers or protecting the community, Cardenas said, Gonzales is deeply committed to the well-being of his colleagues and the safety of our campus communities.

“His technical expertise, positive attitude, and willingness to help make him an invaluable asset to our division’s mission,” he said.

His biggest strength? It’s tenacity and problem-solving.

“I really enjoy piecing things together and tracking down the details that might get overlooked,” he said. He feels pride when he locates evidence or a key piece of video footage.

Gonzales highlighted the collaborative nature of his work.

“Every case we handle involves a lot of collaboration, and everyone plays a role in getting results,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales shared that he is proud to be part of a team that consistently steps in to support one another, exchange ideas, and work collaboratively.

“Honestly, it means a lot to be recognized by the division, and I’m really grateful for it,” he said. “At the same time, I don’t see it as something I did on my own—it’s a reflection of the team I get to work with every day.”

Servant Leadership in Action

Leadership Award recipient AnnaCatherine Roosa was commended by her supervisor Sylvia Arrizola.

“AnnaCatherine truly exemplifies Servant Leadership – leading with humility, listening first, and consistently putting the needs of the team and division at the forefront,” Director Arrizola said. “At the same time, she pairs this mindset with strong operational discipline, setting clear expectations, using data to guide her decisions, and ensuring follow-through on priorities.”

Roosa’s ability to foster trust and meaningful connections with her staff, peers, and stakeholders has strengthened the daily operations of the division’s administrative service line.

“This recognition is well deserved and reflects her impact on both people and performance,” Arrizola said.

Roosa believes that leadership is about listening, building trust, investing in others, and creating space for people to succeed. She emphasizes that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about fostering a culture where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential.

She supports team members in taking ownership, encourages the sharing of ideas, and provides guidance for their development. One of the most rewarding aspects of leadership, she said, is seeing her team members and mentees reach their goals, thrive and exceed what they thought was possible.

Reflecting on the honor, Roosa emphasized the significance of being recognized by those she works closest with.

“To be recognized with this award is truly meaningful— but to know the nominations came from my own team makes it incredibly special,” she said.

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Together, these two honorees reflect the dedication and excellence that define the division. Stay tuned next Tuesday as this series concludes with the remaining “Of the Year” recipients.

'Of the Year' Recipients Shine at 14th Annual Promotions and Awards Ceremony: Volume 1

'Of the Year' Recipients Shine at 14th Annual Promotions and Awards Ceremony: Volume 2