Gerace Appointed Director of Campus Security and Safety and Chautauqua

Joseph Gerace

CHAUTAUQUA – It didn’t take long for former Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace to find a new job after being defeated in the 2018 general election.

Gerace has been named director of campus security and safety at Chautauqua Institution and will be responsible for enacting recommendations from Chautauqua’s Security Master Plan. In addition to his new post, Gerace will also become Chautauqua’s police chief once current chief Alan Akin retires after the 2019 summer season.

“We are elated to welcome Joe to our year-round staff. His leadership as sheriff ensured the safety and security of multiple generations of Institution residents and visitors, and this community is fortunate to benefit now even more directly from his experience and service,” said John Shedd, the Institution’s vice president of campus planning and operations. “Through Joe’s leadership, our security personnel will continue to provide the delicate balance of enforcement, preventive security tactics, and exceptional community relations acumen cultivated for decades under Al’s command. We are grateful for Al’s dedicated service to Chautauqua, and we look forward to celebrating his many contributions throughout the coming months.” 

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve such a prestigious organization,” Gerace said. “I have always loved Chautauqua Institution since beginning my law enforcement career here. I look forward to working with the wonderful employees, residents and guests on this historic campus.”

Gerace earned a Master of Professional Studies in community service administration from Alfred University; a Bachelor of Arts in police science from Mercyhurst College; and an associate’s degree in applied science in criminal justice from Jamestown Community College. A lifelong resident of Chautauqua County, he has coached youth hockey and soccer programs, serves on the board of Chautauqua Opportunities and is president of the Chautauqua Children’s Safety Education Village. He and his wife Gina live in West Ellicott, where they also raised seven children. 

Gerace served Chautauqua County as sheriff from 1995 through the end of 2018. He was defeated in the November election by current county sheriff James Quattrone.