Name? Rank?
Marge Rizalvo, Lieutenant
How long have you been with OSUPD?
26 years
Where are you from and how does that help shape who you are today?
I was born and raised near the shores of New Jersey. I grew up in a population of diversity in thought and culture. Many school trips over the years took us to New York City where we experienced Broadway shows, art galleries, museums, and traditional tourist destinations such as the Statue of Liberty and the Twin Towers, pre-9/11. We also did trips to the NJ Pinelands which is a large ecological region and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. I took much of this for granted, and it was only later did I appreciate these opportunities and experiences. Being around folks who had different paths in life helps to appreciate and be curious about them and their experiences. Appreciating nature at that young and impressionable age shows up today in the advocacy for conservation and climate related issues.
What inspired you to become an OSUPD officer?
The culture, the community and the opportunity to be a part of something impactful. Future leaders are born and developed at Ohio State. There are many visitors, affiliates, research partners, influence and representation worldwide. I get to be a part of that.
What’s unique about policing at Ohio State?
Policing in Higher Education has federally mandated compliance requirements, which is a distinct difference compared to our municipality peers and other colleagues. Ohio State is a unique environment of being a city within a city which presents both challenges and opportunities not readily experienced in other agencies. We have strong working relationships with stakeholders representing federal, state, and local public service folks to provide the highest level of service to ensure a safe environment during a variety of needs and events. There is interaction with many different people representing various ethnicities, diversity of thought, abilities, cultural competencies and identities.
Why do you serve?
It is an honor and a privilege to meet folks where they are to provide support on what may be one of the worst days for them. Being a police officer is a purpose and a calling to serve. I come from a long line of professional healthcare workers whose influence and model were to serve others. This is my way of doing so.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Spending time with family and friends, travel, time in nature, and motorcycle rides. My wife and I travel internationally where we enjoy different cultures, foods, and traditions.
What’s your favorite thing about being a Buckeye?
Little reminders that there is Ohio State representation everywhere. For instance, I found an Ohio State t-shirt for sale during an international trip. Also, wherever you go there is a high probability if you yell, “O-H”, you’ll probably get the “I-O” response! Go Bucks!