University of Minnesota Police Chief Matthew Clark plans to step down in May, according to a systemwide email sent Wednesday.

Clark, who served in the University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD) since June 2015, stepped down one month before his 10-year anniversary as police chief.

Gregg Goldman, Executive Vice President for Finance and Operations at the University, thanked Clark in the press release for his service and leadership.

“We are grateful for his dedication to campus safety and wish him all the best in this next chapter,” Goldman said.

Before becoming Chief of Police for UMPD, Clark started his law enforcement career in 1991 and served five different Minnesota police agencies. He spent 22 years with the Minneapolis Police Department, three of which were as assistant chief of police.

In his tenure at the University, Clark oversaw police operations during much civil unrest, including the George Floyd protests of 2020 and, more recently, on-campus protests over the conflict in Gaza. 

Clark also repeatedly emphasized UMPD’s focus on community engagement. He helped organize efforts such as UMPD’s recent opening of the Off-Campus Safety Center in Dinkytown. 

Clark received scrutiny after the George Floyd protests, with the Minnesota Student Association (MSA) calling for Clark to step down in 2021, claiming he failed to improve the safety and wellness of students of color on campus. 

It is unknown why Clark decided to step down, but the University’s Police and Public Safety Department commended Clark for his time as chief.

“In his nearly 10 years of service at the University, he was an outstanding and recognized public safety leader and has the support and gratitude of the campus community,” the Public Safety Department said in an Instagram post. “Chief Clark’s ability to manage important partnerships and tenacity with starting and promoting important safety initiatives, provided valuable safety services to the campus for many years.”

The University said they will begin the national search for a new chief, but until a candidate is chosen, Captain Erik Swanson will act as the interim chief of police.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated Erik Swanson is a Lieutenant. He is a Captain.