Upon joining the University of Central Arkansas’ Police Department (UCAPD) in October 2020, Officer Nicole Sumner-Wheeler ’24 knew she had found a special place to continue her law enforcement career, finish her education and serve her community.
The Little Rock native has more than a decade of experience in law enforcement, first working with the Little Rock Police Department before coming to UCA hoping to do more in the community.
“I loved what I did, but I wanted to do something different or a different aspect of policing. I have a passion for service and helping others, and UCA has given me that opportunity,” Sumner-Wheeler said.
Another opportunity presented itself when she decided to complete her education with a Bachelor of General Studies. “After working in law enforcement, having two children, getting married and being pregnant when I started here, I knew I could utilize the employee discount. I thought, ‘I’m here every day, and I have this opportunity they’re giving me.’”
Her determination and willingness to serve the community are reflected in her role as director of community outreach for UCAPD. This entails organizing and conducting campus training for police officers, faculty, staff and students. The training consists of mental health, first aid, alcohol awareness and much more.
Additionally, her passion for empowering women and building connections is present in everything she does, whether she is organizing a training session, participating in UCA’s peer coaching circle or serving as part of the Women’s Leadership Network in their community service initiatives.
“We’re currently working on a service project for the city of Conway for single and expecting mothers that will be like a community baby shower.”
“I just love to empower women,” she continued, “especially single moms, because I was once a single mom, and I had that person who always pushed and motivated me, and that’s how I am where I am today.”
When reflecting on her career in campus law enforcement, she expressed her deep appreciation for the community she serves.
“I absolutely love it here. It’s the students. It’s the connections. It’s the students I talk to when I’m walking through campus, and they say, ‘Hey, I got a problem. I need to come talk to you about something.’ That is what I live for,” she said. “You just don’t realize the impact you have on people’s lives until they come to you with a problem or just to see you. That’s the main thing: connecting with the students and building relationships with them so they can have someone in the capacity of law enforcement.”