University Police Chief Michael Cloutier presided over a promotion ceremony, as Officer Dylan Soldi was officially promoted to the rank of Sergeant and Officer Michael Chesson was officially promoted to the rank of Detective.
“It is an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate a significant milestone in the careers of two outstanding members of our department,” Chief Cloutier said. “This ceremony isn't just about new titles; it's about recognizing dedication, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community.
“Today, we are promoting two individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership potential, and a profound understanding of what it means to be in service to others. They have proven themselves ready to take on new challenges and greater responsibilities, and I have every confidence that they will excel in their new roles.”
Chief Cloutier said that as a first-line supervisor, Sergeant Soldi will play a crucial role in maintaining and elevating the quality of services provided to the community.
“During the selection process, Sergeant Soldi clearly demonstrated that he possesses the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities to excel as a front-line supervisor,” Chief Cloutier said. “What stood out even more was his compassionate leadership style. Our current sergeants each bring unique skill sets and perspectives, and we eagerly anticipate Sergeant Soldi's contributions to the supervisory team.”
Soldi was officially pinned by his parents, Shannon and Thomas.
“Family means a lot to me,” Sergeant Soldi said. “We’ve been going through some health issues, especially with my father, so that’s why I chose him to pin me. He has some heart issues – it runs in the family – and we just lost my grandparents, so having the family I could have here today pin me, it feels really good to have them here.”
Soldi, who wanted to be a police officer since he was 8-year-old, became one in 2020.
“I want to continue growing in this career and get as far as I can, better the agencies that I work for and serve the community,” he said. “I like to think I’m a people person and can talk to almost anybody, and it means a lot to come to work and meet new people and help people through things. Now, as a supervisor, I can do that not only with the people I serve, but my officers as well.”
According to Chief Cloutier, Detective Chesson will play a key role in improving the department's investigative services, helping better serve the campus community with proactive and responsive support.
“Since joining our department, Officer Chesson has quickly embraced our philosophy, consistently striving to conduct thorough investigations with both compassion and fairness,” Chief Cloutier said. “His dedication and commitment to comprehensive police work have been truly impressive.”
Chesson was pinned by his 10-year-old son, David.
“I’m very proud of him for this,” said David.
Detective Chesson will always remember his son pinning him.
“It means everything and that’s why I do what I do,” he said. “I try to set a good example and try to be his Superman, his superhero.”
Detective Chesson, who has been with the University for a little over a year, said that he’s honored with the promotion.
“It means a lot to me,” he said. “I’m thankful that they had enough trust in me for me to get to this point and to be able to take on this role. I just hope to make them proud and live up to their expectations.”
Learn more about the crucial role our Fitchburg State University Police Department plays on campus here.