Michael Caruolo named safety and security director

Michael A. Caruolo, a 21-year law enforcement veteran, is the new director of safety and security at Salve Regina. He took over June 9 for John Mixter, who is retiring after serving in the position for the last 14 years.

Caruolo joined the Newport Police Department in 1992 as a patrol officer and went on to serve as a criminal investigator, sergeant and lieutenant. He was commanding officer of Early Watch operations, the Newport Police Department Special Response Team and a team leader on the Rhode Island Weapons of Mass Destruction Tactical Team.

“I’m absolutely thrilled about the opportunity to become part of the Salve Regina community,” Caruolo said. “I’ve had a wonderful career in law enforcement at one of the finest police departments in the country, and now I will be working with campus officials and local police and fire to keep the Salve Regina campus safe, just as John Mixter has done. It is evident that the men and women of Salve Regina’s safety and security department take pride in their work to provide a safe and positive learning environment, and I look forward to being a member of this team.”

During his tenure with Newport Police, Caruolo was cited with two Chief’s Awards, five Meritorious Service Awards, 38 letters of recognition and 31 letters of commendation. He is a member of the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators and has served on the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

A graduate of the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy, he holds Advanced Clery Act Certification, including all aspects of the Higher Education Opportunity Act. He has worked for many years in partnership with Salve Regina, including the coordination of police action on more than three dozen emergency response drills held on various campus locations.

Mixter has been a member of the Salve Regina community for more than 30 years as a graduate student, a member of the adjunct faculty, Newport Police liaison with the University, parent of a Salve Regina student and as director of safety and security. He and his wife Sue plan to move to Virginia Beach, where they will enjoy time with their grandchildren. He also plans to complete his paramedic training and certification, and will volunteer his time with the city of Virginia Beach.

“I have made wonderful friends at Salve Regina and have thoroughly enjoyed working with such a fine team of colleagues, all of whom I will miss,” Mixter said.