After more than 25 years of service and countless hours dedicated to the community, CSUF Police Department’s Capt. Scot Willey is retiring in December 2024.
His career began at the Orange County Marshal’s Office before he transferred to his alma mater, Cal State Long Beach, and subsequently to Cal State Fullerton, where he will finish his career after rising from sergeant to captain.
After joining the CSUF Police Department as a seasoned officer, Scot was assigned to various divisions, becoming the bridge between the department and the community. He oversaw investigations, crime prevention, community service officers, public affairs and the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators while serving as the department’s public information officer.
Scot shows dedication in all he does, including raising his son Connor and daughter Kasey with his loving wife Kelly.
“I have always been proud to be the daughter of a police officer as if I were part of an exclusive club. I admire that you chose to dedicate your professional life to helping others. Thank you for the time spent making our community a safe place,” said Kasey. “Thank you for always working to bridge the gap between the public and police officers.”
Kelly noted the unwavering effort Scot made as a family man from the beginning of his career. She recalled them both working full-time while he simultaneously took night and weekend classes to help support their family.
“Raising our children, building our careers and creating a life that we’re both so proud of has been a labor of love,” said Kelly. “You have more than earned this next chapter. I hope you enjoy your well-deserved retirement and all the peace and joy it brings.”
His loyalty did not stop with his loved ones at home but continued at work. Scot found a family in his co-workers and was considered a confidant and mentor by many. Connor described his father as a “burly barrel-chested manly emotional teddy bear” and credits his unconditional love for others to him.
“He showed me to laugh, love and care for those around me, whether family, friend or stranger, without thinking twice,” said Connor. “He has always been such a reliable outlet, whether sharing good news or bad, to express feelings without any fear of judgment.”
Scot was committed to excellence and devoted to being a fair, reliable and steadfast leader. Throughout his career, he completed hundreds of hours of training with the California Peace Officer and Standards and Training for supervision and management. He attended the Leadership Institute, Institute for Credible Leadership, Executive Management Program, Executive Communication Program, and Advanced Threat Assessment and Management Academy.
In retirement, Scot looks forward to golfing, trying new hobbies like welding and spending time with his family and new grandson. While he’ll no longer wear boots and a badge daily, his new role as “Papa Willey” will keep him busy.
By Marissa Garza and Allison Goyich