Nigel Lee named Virginia Tech Police Officer of the Year
Nigel Lee has been named the Virginia Tech Police Department’s Officer of the Year, an honor recognizing a sworn member whose productivity, professional development, teamwork, leadership, and overall contributions exemplify excellence in law enforcement.
Lee was presented with the award during a ceremony on Feb. 13.
The Officer of the Year award is selected following a review by command staff and typically reflects a consistent body of work over the course of the calendar year. In some cases, the award also may recognize a single exceptional act.
Lee has served the Virginia Tech community since 2016 and brings more than 20 years of prior law enforcement experience to the department. He is a U.S. Army combat veteran who served during the first Gulf War.
In a letter nominating Lee for the award, Capt. Kendrah Cline cited his sustained excellence, professionalism, and behind-the-scenes leadership as setting him apart.
“Officer Lee consistently demonstrates an exceptional, self-directed work ethic, along with a level of dedication and dependability that sets him apart,” Cline wrote. “The scope of responsibility and liability associated with his position extends far beyond what his title alone suggests, and he approaches that responsibility every day with care, integrity, and pride.”
As the department’s records and accreditation coordinator, Lee plays a critical role in maintaining compliance with nationally recognized standards. His leadership was instrumental during the Virginia Tech Police Department’s most recent accreditation cycles, where his work and presentations were specifically commended by both file reviewers and on-site assessors, according to the nomination.
“Officer Lee’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of his work,” said Mac Babb, chief of police. “His professionalism, attention to detail, and consistent reliability have a direct impact on the effectiveness of our department and the trust we build with the community. He is deeply deserving of this recognition.”
Beyond accreditation and records management, Lee is known for his dependability and willingness to step in wherever needed, often supporting high-responsibility assignments on short notice and collaborating closely with both internal partners and external stakeholders.
Lee said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of the department.
“I’m honored and grateful to receive this award,” Lee said. “The work I do is only possible because of the support and trust of my colleagues. Serving the Virginia Tech community alongside such dedicated professionals is something I take great pride in.”
The Officer of the Year award highlights the Virginia Tech Police Department’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and service in support of campus safety and well-being.
