Name? Rank?
Officer Drew Stadelman
How long have you been with OSUPD?
Since January of 2022
Where are you from and how does that help shape who you are today?
I’m from Tallmadge, OH, which is near Akron. My parents and sisters were great role models for me growing up and gave me some big shoes to fill. I was always known as the youngest Stadelman, which was a title that gave me pride and made me a better person. Growing up in a smaller city gave me a strong sense of community. In addition to my family, I had many friends and teachers/mentors who had a strong sense of service, compassion and creating positive/friendly environments for others. This is something I still try to do every day in my personal and professional life.
What inspired you to become an OSUPD officer?
I started looking into law enforcement my sophomore/junior year of high school. After looking into the field of law enforcement I realized I wanted to work for a smaller department. I had an opportunity to attend Ohio State as a student and began working for DPS as a student in 2014. This gave me a closer look into our police division and allowed me the chance to work for a community I have personal ties with and that I care about!
What’s unique about policing at Ohio State?
As one of the largest universities in the country we have the size, amenities and feel of a small city or suburb. We also have a wide array of major events and activities around campus, as well as being in the middle of a major US city, which means there’s always something to do and countless opportunities to get involved with things in which other agencies don’t normally get to see.
Why do you serve?
It’s a way for me to give back to a community that has given so much to me. I was raised to help others and service/volunteering was a major part of my life growing up, so it only made sense to find a job where I could continue helping others. As university officers, we have a unique environment to engage with young adults who have most likely never been on their own before and are learning about responsibility and making good decisions. Serving the Ohio State community is a way for me to assist in providing a safer environment for those individuals who are here to grow and learn, the employees who also serve the university in other areas and those who come to visit campus.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy sports, being outdoors, being with family/friends and DIY projects.
What’s your favorite thing about being a Buckeye?
Being able to attend Ohio State as a student was an awesome opportunity, so having the ability to now serve the Buckeye community is even better! I also grew up a die-hard Buckeye fan with my family. I have two sisters, one who also currently works for Ohio State and another who is an Alum, along with my parents who follow Buckeye athletics closely and have since they were young. To say we’re a Buckeye family through and through is a bit of an understatement!
GO BUCKS and O-H!