Angela Coonce

• Chief of Campus Police 
  WashU Police Department

Angela Coonce, chief of WashU’s Police Department, has worked in law enforcement for nearly three decades. After accepting an offer as the Chief of Police, she retired from her previous position for one day before starting with WashU. She couldn’t wait another day for her WashU career to start. 

“This position was always my dream job!” Chief Coonce said. “I feel like it was destiny; I don’t take any day for granted at WashU.”

Chief Coonce, who served with the St. Louis Police Department for 24 years before joining WashU, asks her team to focus on community engagement, strengthening bonds and enhancing collective experiences among students, employees and community members. Her goal is to build trust and personal connections between her team of officers and students, employees and visitors. At the end of each day, Chief Coonce wants the community to know that WashU PD is always here to support them.

“There is undeniable energy and excitement present on our campus that is both inspiring and invigorating,” Chief Coonce said. “I often remind our officers that our mission is straightforward, yet profound: We are here to ensure a safe learning environment where our students can thrive and ultimately go out and change the world. Each day, we strive to make a meaningful impact on campus.”

As a leader for her team and the larger university, when her team members make a meaningful, positive impact on the lives of others, Chief Coonce believes it is imperative to formally recognize and celebrate their efforts. She knows this recognition not only boosts morale but also underscores the value of their contributions to our community. 

Chief Coonce also understands that connecting her team to the bigger picture helps showcase they are part of something larger to campus. The connection to WashU’s mission and purpose give them ownership of projects, allows them to collaborate with university partners and helps hone problem-solving skills.

“Our continuous pursuit of excellence involves seeking innovative ways to involve our staff in decisions and processes that shape the future of our department, ultimately leading to more effective and cohesive service to the WashU community,” Chief Coonce said. “This culture of inclusion and recognition ensures that our team remains motivated, engaged, and dedicated to the highest standards – Excellence without Exception!”

While Chief Coonce has only been with WashU since 2022, she strives to be part of, and create, a team that makes meaningful, positive changes in St. Louis. As a proud St. Louis City resident, she has seen firsthand the significant impacts WashU has on our larger community. She also knows the commitment and care the university has for our employees and the support of our benefits and support systems. Chief Coonce highly recommends WashU for any career path thanks in part for our purpose, employee support, and the opportunities to make a real difference in our communities.

“There is a “secret sauce” at WashU, something very special that is difficult to put your finger on,” Chief Coonce said. “I compare WashU to my Grandma’s potato soup, once you’ve had a taste of it, you can’t imagine any other.”

Chief Coonce, chief of campus police

In her free time, Chief Coonce enjoys traveling, outdoor adventures and staying active. Her family farm in Southern Illinois holds a special place in her heart, especially now that she can watch Archie, one of WashU PD’s comfort dogs, enjoy the farm, too. She also enjoys sports, having played basketball at Harris-Stowe State University, and now enjoys watching football and golfing in Forest Park.

She continues to give back to the St. Louis community. She supports Stray Rescue St. Louis through rescue and fostering, and from their partnership with WashU PD. She also built a pollinator garden at a South St. Louis City school to help educate younger children on butterflies and their impact to the environment. Additionally, Chief Coonce sits on the board of Rebuilding Together St. Louis, an organization dedicated to providing safe and healthy housing for income-qualified older adults, veterans and people with disabilities.