Spotlight on UT Police: 2025 Awardee Edition

UT Police consists of police officers, public safety officers, telecommunicators, and civilian employees - all of whom contribute to the success of the division. Highlighting some of the people who work hard to ensure safety on the campuses of MD Anderson and UTHealth Houston provides our community with a fuller picture of the heroism, successes, and contributions of our team to our community.

The 13th annual UT Police Promotions and Awards Ceremony was held in May 2025. Here, we take a moment to catch up with the Of The Year awardees to learn more about them and to describe the qualities that earned them the recognition.

Senior Detective Brodie Riner – 2025 Supervisor of the Year

What has been his career journey with UT Police?

Senior Detective Brodie Riner has been named the 2025 Supervisor of the Year, a recognition for a remarkable career spanning over two decades. Since joining UT Police in 2004, Riner has demonstrated commitment to public safety and institutional integrity, serving in roles from Patrol Officer, Criminal Investigations Division Investigator, Patrol Sergeant, Tactical Mitigation Team Sergeant and Senior Detective, to his current position as Senior Detective in the Office of Professional Integrity. With a military background in the U.S. Army and National Guard, and a foundation in health care as a pharmacy technician, Riner brings a unique blend of tactical, investigative, and interpersonal skills to his work.

What does he consider his greatest strength?

In his own words, Riner attributes his success to his ability to work effectively under pressure and resolve complex situations swiftly, qualities evident to his team members through his leadership and mentorship within the division.

What are his goals and favorite holiday?

When asked about his goals, Riner is motivated to finish his education, open a small business, and eventually retire to travel. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Homeland Security at Sam Houston State University and is attending the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, reflecting his dedication to continuous growth. True to form, even his favorite holiday, Christmas, reflects his optimism, as he appreciates the season for the kindness it inspires in others. Riner’s career is a testament to resilience, service, and a forward-looking vision that continues to elevate the mission of UT Police.

Workplace Violence Prevention Director Marvin Radford – 2025 Leadership Award

What has been his career journey with UT Police?

Marvin Radford, Director of the Workplace Violence Prevention Program, has been recognized with the 2025 Leadership Award for his exceptional contributions in creating a safe workplace culture. Though he has been with UT Police for just three years, Radford’s impact has been immediate. He brings with him an impressive background that includes master’s degrees in nursing and business administration. With 24 years of service at MD Anderson and a distinguished 30-year military career, Radford transitioned seamlessly into his current role in 2022. “This is my dream job,” he shares, citing the exceptional leadership and support from his team as key to his success.

What are his personal and professional goals?

Radford is clear about his priorities for the future. His primary goal is to retire from MD Anderson within the next five years to spend more quality time with family and friends. In the meanwhile, he strives to balance personal well-being with professional achievement. Radford is committed to developing a program that enhances safety for all employees. His approach to leadership is grounded in his experience and the fulfillment he gets from his contributions to our institutions.

What is his favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving stands out as Radford’s favorite holiday. “There’s always plenty of amazing food to eat,” he says, adding that it also offers a chance to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and hunting with his in-laws. The holiday represents a meaningful blend of family, tradition, and gratitude, which are values that align closely with Radford’s approach to life and leadership.

What work accomplishments is he the proudest of?

For Radford, his proudest professional accomplishment is joining and leading within UT Police. “The culture is phenomenal,” he said, “and ” His passion for his role and admiration for his colleagues exemplify the kind of leadership that earned him this year’s Leadership Award.

Senior Detective Johnathan Fraley – 2025 Investigator of the Year

What has been his career journey with UT Police?

Senior Detective Johnathan Fraley was named the 2025 Investigator of the Year, just two years after joining UT Police. Fraley began his role in 2023, following an impressive 28-year career with the Houston Police Department (HPD). He is currently assigned as a Task Force Officer at the FBI Houston Division. He brings a wealth of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to investigative excellence. By joining UT Police after retiring from HPD, he is driven by a continued desire to serve, and his contributions have already made a lasting impact.

What does he consider to be his greatest strength?

Fraley identifies his resiliency and flexibility as key strengths that were put to the test during a major investigation early in his tenure with UT Police. Tasked with a large, confidential, and high-profile case, Fraley led a months-long investigation that required multi-agency coordination, extensive travel, and dozens of subpoenas and interviews. The case demanded strategic collaboration with fellow UT Police investigators, analysts, system administrators, and external partners. Through it all, Fraley focused on delivering justice and supporting the victim, demonstrating both compassion and persistence.

What work accomplishments is he the proudest of?

That same investigation stands out as Fraley’s proudest professional achievement during his time at UT Police. His efforts led to a successful resolution of the case. Most importantly, the individual at the center of the case is now in a safer environment. For Fraley, the opportunity to conduct a thorough investigation while making a positive impact on someone’s well-being exemplifies the purpose and value of meaningful investigative work.

Lead Telecommunicator Carol Walker – 2025 Telecommunicator of the Year

What has been her career journey with UT Police?

Lead Telecommunicator Carol Walker, recipient of the 2025 Telecommunicator of the Year award, began her career with UT Police in 1992 in security. A pivotal opportunity to volunteer in telecommunications led her to discover her true calling, dispatch. Under the guidance of influential mentors, she developed a deep sense of teamwork and community that still defines her approach today.  After several promotions with the division, she is now Lead Telecommunicator. Her leadership is not only reflected in her role but also in her involvement with the Risk Operations Center Spirit Committee and the UT Police Peer Support Program. Walker credits her night shift team and the encouragement of her supervisor, Robert “Tito” Latiff, for creating a positive and collaborative work environment., for creating a positive and collaborative work environment.

What is her favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving is Walker’s favorite holiday, a time she cherishes for the warmth, laughter, and joy it brings. For her, it's about more than just the meal, it's a celebration of togetherness. “We usually end up dancing and laughing until we can't anymore,” she says, highlighting how the holiday is filled with gratitude and unforgettable moments shared with loved ones.

What work accomplishments is she the proudest of?

Walker considers her promotion to Lead Telecommunicator to be the most meaningful accomplishment of her career. The role has provided her the chance to mentor others and support their professional growth. Seeing her team members succeed and knowing she played a part in that journey brings her tremendous pride and fulfillment. She is passionate about continuing this mentorship and fostering an environment of encouragement and excellence.

What has been the biggest challenge she’s had to overcome so far?

One of the most significant challenges Walker has faced is overcoming the tendency to seek external validation. Learning to trust her own judgment and prioritize her values over the expectations of others has been a transformative journey. This shift toward self-assurance and internal confidence has strengthened her both personally and professionally, allowing her to lead with authenticity and resilience.

Officer Terri Johnson – 2025 Police Officer of the Year

What has been her career journey with UT Police?

Officer Terri Johnson joined the UT Police in 2021 as a Public Safety Officer. Shortly thereafter, she was selected to attend the UT System Police Academy and was promoted to Police Officer in 2023. Johnson describes her time with UT Police as one of the greatest honors of her life. She reflects on the meaningful experiences and impactful calls that have helped shape her into the officer and person she is today. “This career is my calling,” she says, expressing both gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead.

What work accomplishments is she the proudest of?

Johnson is especially proud of being recognized as Rookie Officer of the Year in 2024 and now Officer of the Year in 2025. For her, the recognition goes beyond the title; it represents the values she strives to uphold every day: service, integrity, and teamwork. She credits the success to the mentorship and collaboration she's found within UT Police, calling it a team effort. “Any success I’ve had is truly a reflection of the support I’ve found here at UT Police,” she said.

What are her professional goals?

Looking to the future, Johnson is driven to continue growing within UT Police. She hopes to take on leadership roles that will allow her to mentor others and contribute to the division’s long-term success. “I’m ready to keep pushing forward,” she said, “to make a greater impact and help move the division in a positive direction.”

What is her favorite holiday and why?

Martin Luther King Jr. Day holds a special place in Johnson’s heart because it coincides with a very special day for her. “Dr. King’s legacy of courage, unity, and service speaks deeply to me, especially as a Police Officer,” she said. The holiday serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact one person can make. It inspires her to lead with fairness, justice, and respect, values that guide both her personal mission and professional duty.

Threat and Risk Analyst Eric Thacker – 2025 Civilian Employee of the Year

What has been his career journey with UT Police?

Threat and Risk Analyst Eric Thacker joined UT Police two years ago and quickly became a key member of the Risk Operations Center’s technology team. As a Threat and Risk Analyst, his focus has centered on critical communications infrastructure, including maintaining and upgrading radios and dispatch consoles. Thacker takes pride in this highly technical work, which directly supports the division’s mission of safety and responsiveness. “I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to work on systems that play such a vital role in our operations,” he shares.

What is his favorite holiday and why?

Christmas is Thacker’s favorite time of year. For him, the holiday season is about reconnecting with family and friends who he doesn’t often see. That time spent together – reflecting, celebrating, and relaxing – is something he truly values.

What work accomplishments is he the proudest of?

One of Thacker’s standout achievements has been his leadership in the dispatch console upgrade project. This major initiative involved transitioning the division’s aging system to a new, enterprise-grade platform, significantly improving reliability and reducing outages. The success of this project has had an immediate and lasting impact on the division’s ability to communicate efficiently and respond quickly to emergencies.

What does he consider to be his greatest strength?

Adaptability is the strength Thacker values most. In a field where technology, priorities, and needs can shift rapidly, his ability to adjust and stay focused has been key. “Situations and circumstances will always change,” he says. “Being able to adapt ensures success in both work and life.” It’s a mindset that has served him and UT Police well.

Public Safety Officer Ruben Arnsworth – 2025 Public Safety Officer of the Year

What has been his career journey with UT Police?

Public Safety Officer Ruben Arnsworth joined the UT Police in 2024, making him one of this year’s newest honorees. Despite being early in his career, he’s already made a strong impression earning the title of 2025 Public Safety Officer of the Year. “This is my first security job,” he said. “Understanding the scope of the work and what it truly means to serve in this role was a challenge at first, but this award confirms that my dedication is making an impact.” Arnsworth sees the recognition as motivation to continue growing and contributing meaningfully to the MD Anderson and UTHealth Houston community.

What does he consider to be his greatest strength?

Arnsworth cites adaptability as his strongest asset. With a diverse professional background across several fields, he has developed the ability to quickly adjust to new expectations, procedures, and challenges. “Security is constantly evolving, from policy shifts to procedural changes,” he said. “Being able to absorb and apply new information efficiently has helped me thrive in this environment.”

What are his professional goals?

Looking ahead, Arnsworth is committed to a long-term future with UT Police. “When I started here, I didn’t just see a job, I saw a career,” he shares. His goal is to serve for at least 20 years, earning promotions, expanding his skills, and ultimately stepping into a leadership role. He is particularly passionate about helping shape the division’s future through mentorship and dedicated service.

What is his favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving holds a special place in Arnsworth’s heart. It’s a day filled with his favorite things: Family, football, and food. “It’s the one time of year where we all come together to share a meal, make memories, and reflect on what we’re thankful for,” he says. “A holiday that bundles all of life’s joys into one day will always be at the top of the list for me.”

Police Officer Valerie Smith-Williams – 2025 Rookie Police Officer of the Year

What has been her career journey with UT Police?

Police Officer Valerie Smith-Williams joined the UT Police in 2023, bringing with her a background in political science, loss prevention, and a law enforcement internship with METRO Police. Inspired by her mother and aunt – both employees at MD Anderson – Smith-Williams chose UT Police as the launchpad for her law enforcement career. Since joining, she has taken part in specialized training, ride-outs, and several major events across the institution. “UT Police has given me so many opportunities to grow professionally while being a part of a supportive and dynamic environment,” she said.

What does she consider to be her greatest strength?

Smith-Williams credits her analytical skills as a key strength. “I enjoy identifying patterns and using technology to investigate and uncover answers,” she explains. This mindset has proven valuable in navigating complex situations, and it sets a solid foundation for her future aspirations in the field of intelligence and law enforcement.

What are her professional goals?

Her goals are ambitious and focused. Smith-Williams aims to continue developing her skills in policing while pursuing a graduate degree. Ultimately, she plans to transition into a federal agency working in intelligence. Her drive for continuous learning and growth underscores her commitment to making a long-term impact in public safety.

What is her favorite holiday and why?

Halloween tops the list for Smith-Williams. “I love the atmosphere of autumn, and I’m a huge horror movie fan,” she said. From spooky decorations to movie marathons, the season’s festive energy and creativity make it a holiday she looks forward to every year.