UAPD Captain Greg Foster Retiring After 37 Years

The University of Arkansas Police Department (UAPD) proudly announces the retirement of Captain Greg Foster, closing a remarkable 37-year career dedicated to serving the university community with integrity, leadership, and professionalism. 

Captain Foster began his journey with UAPD in January of 1985 as a student worker in the Razorback Patrol program. His commitment to service was evident from the start, leading him to become the program's supervisor in 1988. During that time, he also served as a part-time dispatcher, gaining valuable operational experience and a deeper understanding of the department's mission.  

In August of 1988, Captain Foster was hired as a full-time police officer and then attended the Law Enforcement Training Academy, graduating second in his class academically. Over the next 17 years, he served in the Patrol Section, earning a promotion to Sergeant in 1992. His leadership and dedication quickly became cornerstones of the department's success. 

In 2005, Captain Foster took on the role of full-time Accreditation Manager, overseeing the department's successful reaccreditation by the Commission on Accreditation Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This milestone reflected not only the department's commitment to excellence but also Captain Foster's meticulous attention to detail and dedication to continuous improvement. 

As his career progressed, Captain Foster held supervisory positions in the Training Section and Communications Center before joining the Criminal Investigations Section in 2010. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2013 and later to Captain in 2015, where he commanded the Operations Section. In this role, he continued to shape UAPD's culture of professionalism and accountability.   

"As you can see, Captain Foster has dedicated his whole career to the University of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas Police Department," said Chief Stephen Gahagans, director of university police. "He served in various capacities where he provided needed insight on a variety of issues." 

Throughout his distinguished career, Captain Foster has served as a certified instructor in defensive tactics, firearms, and RADAR/LIDAR operations. He is a Certified Crime Scene Technician, holds a Senior Certificate from the Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training, and serves as a member of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force. 

A proud University of Arkansas alumnus, Captain Foster earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the U of A, coming full circle from his days as a student worker with Razorback Patrol to a respected leader within the department. 

Captain Foster's legacy is one of dedication, mentorship, and excellence.  

"I could always count on Captain Foster to give his true feelings about matters of the department, and his honest input was critical in our decisions," Gahagans said. "His leadership has left a lasting mark on the University of Arkansas Police Department and the generations of officers who have followed in his footsteps. His unwavering commitment to service has strengthened both the department and the campus community we protect."