XENIA — Kaley Aurand, a 2023 criminal justice graduate of Cedarville University, was sponsored by the Xenia Police Department in the completion of her training at the police academy.

Now Aurand, who graduated from the five-month Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training Academy at Sinclair Community College in November, is a full-time police officer for the Xenia Police Department. She was sworn in Nov. 27.

As a college student, Aurand, originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, searched for area law enforcement agencies and came across the department in Xenia. After doing a ride-along with XPD, she believed Xenia was a good fit for her, so she applied.

Several people in Aurand’s life work in law enforcement, including a neighbor who retired from the Pennsylvania State Police and a close family friend who is a deputy sheriff. Their positive influence on her life made a huge impact on her decision to become a police officer.

“I always wanted a career where I could help people and make a difference in the world,” Aurand said. “Being a police officer allows me to care for others on a daily basis.”

In her role in Xenia, she will patrol the streets looking for ways to help the citizens and keep them safe. Her long-term goal is to become a K-9 handler.

While Aurand was pursuing her degree at Cedarville University, she gained experience by working as an officer with the Cedarville University Campus Security Department. This experience prepared her for her current job and to pass the police academy.

The role of campus security officer taught Aurand how to handle different calls involving conflict and stressful situations. Aurand served in that capacity for three years, starting in her sophomore year as a cadet officer on the evening shift before becoming a part-time officer on the night shift during the fall semester of her senior year. In the spring term, she became a full-time dayshift officer.

“Kaley performed at a very high level and always represented the values of Cedarville University,” said Bruce Upchurch, the director of campus security at Cedarville. “She is trustworthy, dependable and was an essential part of our team. I believe she will be a valuable asset to the Xenia Police Department.”