"He may bring to the table a great deal of law enforcement experience, but others close to the problem may be able to teach him things, so he will listen, absorb and try to take into account the views of others," Stern said.

Riley may also bring some new technology to the department.

"He has the reputation within the state police for being the manager that has most readily embraced technology." O'Toole said, adding that Riley is a strong leader.

"He's very professional. He's very compassionate," O'Toole said. "His integrity is beyond question. He is committed to whatever task he undertakes and is respected not only by those who work for him but among those his agency services."

Experience

Riley, who has six adult children, said he is excited about the job because he likes the idea of working in the University setting.

"I really enjoy being around young people," Riley said. "That's part of the opportunity of being chief".

The incoming chief said he views his job as one of playing the role of energizer.

"I view this as an opportunity to contribute to the University," he said. "The police officers there will be energized by my attitude."

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Boston, Riley was an officer in the State Police Bureau of Investigative Services from 1971 to 1987.

From 1984 to 1989, he was the president and chair of the executive board of the State Police Association of Massachusetts, which represents state police officers.

He served as commanding officer of the State Police Bureau of Staff Operations from 1987 to 1989, Special Assistant to the Secretary of Public Safety for Policy, Planning and Budgetary Analysis from 1989 to 1991 and Commander of the Bureau of Investigative Services from 1991 to 1992.

Marios Broustas contributed to the reporting of this story.