Saint Xavier University Police Chief Dan Murphy has spent much of his life looking out for others. From his years in the U.S. Air Force to a 30-year career in law enforcement, Murphy has built his career around service, responsibility and protecting his community.
Those years of service were recognized Nov. 11 when Saint Xavier University’s Student Veterans Alliance (SVA), in partnership with the McCarthy Brigade, held a Veterans Day celebration in the Butler Reception Room. The event honored Murphy for his military service and his contributions to the university.
Murphy served in the Air Force from 1987 to 1991 as a security specialist, reaching the rank of sergeant. He was assigned to the 86th Security Police Squadron at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where he helped protect aircraft, flightlines, base facilities and weapons. His duties also included working German town patrols alongside local police officers.
He later served at Grand Forks Air Force Base, where he supported Minuteman III missile security and operations during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. His military decorations included the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal.
After receiving an honorable discharge, Murphy continued his career in public service, spending 30 years in law enforcement. He worked his way up from patrolman to sergeant, chief of investigations and acting chief of police.
In 2002, he founded Child Safety Zone, an organization that educated children and community members about personal safety, drugs, gangs and violence prevention. His work in law enforcement earned him several honors, including the Medal of Honor, Combat Cross, Wounded in Combat and other valor awards.
Murphy joined Saint Xavier in 2022, working in emergency management and campus safety before becoming the university’s chief of police. He is also working toward earning the college degree he had hoped to pursue for years.
Married to his wife, Julie, Murphy is the father of six children and grandfather of two. He said his family has played an important role throughout his life, particularly during his military service and career.
“I’ve realized how much it matters to have your family behind you,” Murphy said. “My mother supported me on my decision when I first left home to serve, and my wife stood by me during the years that followed.”
He said raising a family has taught him the importance of love, patience and encouragement.
“Being a father gives me a purpose to everything I do in life,” Murphy said.
Murphy also shared some of the advice he has carried with him throughout his career. One of his personal rules is, “If you’re 15 minutes early, you’re late.”
He also believes people need to understand that their decisions and behavior affect those around them.
“Actions matter to others — always follow through because your actions affect others,” he said.
Speaking about his time in the Air Force, Murphy said the experience gave him the confidence to handle difficult situations and the determination to keep moving forward.
“My service in the United States Air Force gave me the confidence and determination to face challenges and keep moving forward,” Murphy said. “Those lessons have stayed with me through my career and now as a student at Saint Xavier University.”
Being recognized by the university was especially meaningful to Murphy because his military background remains an important part of who he is.
Karen O’Brien, a lieutenant colonel and associate professor of nursing at Saint Xavier, spoke about why it is important to recognize veterans, including those who may not openly discuss their military experiences.
“Why is it so important to talk about veterans, you might ask? Veterans are all around us, mostly existing quietly among us,” O’Brien said.
She encouraged people to take the time to acknowledge veterans when they encounter them.
“When you see a veteran, stop, say hi, acknowledge them and thank them,” she said. “Offer a handshake of gratitude and a thank you for your service.”
Matthew Maltese, veterans and athletics compliance adviser, said Murphy was selected because of his service to the country and his contributions to the Saint Xavier community.
“Dan has been an integral part of the Saint Xavier University community for several years, and his service to our country, school and community will be recognized on this day,” Maltese said.
Karely Padilla, SVA president, said the celebration gave the university community an opportunity to come together and recognize veterans for their sacrifices.
“As a veteran and president of SVA, I’m proud to help bring our campus community together to recognize those who have served,” Padilla said. “It means a lot to see our school create a space where veterans feel appreciated, supported and remembered — not just on Veteran’s Day but throughout the entire year.”
Before the celebration concluded, Murphy offered a message to other veterans, expressing his appreciation for those who served alongside him.
“To my fellow veterans, thank you for your service. I’m proud to have worn our nation’s uniform,” he said.
