Kathy Zoner, interim chief of the Cornell University Police and an 18-year veteran of the force, has been named chief of her department, becoming the first woman in the job.

The appointment was announced Wednesday by Mary Opperman, Cornell vice president for human resources. Zoner was sworn in Wednesday by outgoing chief Curtis S. Ostrander, who retired in June. Zonor had been in the job on an interim basis since.

Appointed captain and assistant director of Cornell Police in 2005, Zoner became deputy chief in 2007. She is a graduate of Ohio State University and the FBI National Academy.

"We are thrilled that Kathy Zoner has accepted the position as chief. Throughout her career, she has provided leadership for new department initiatives while building strong relationships with Cornell students, faculty and staff," said Opperman. "In addition, our thanks go to our previous chief, Curt Ostrander, who retired last summer, for his fine leadership of this talented team who serve the Cornell community with such unwavering commitment."

Said Zoner: "I am thrilled with the opportunity that the university has given me and I am proud to lead this fantastic team of law enforcement professionals as we continue our mission of service to Cornell."