Kovar Named MCLEAA Officer of the Year

Northern Michigan University Police Det./Lt. Jon Kovar has been selected as the 2025 Officer of the Year by the Marquette County Law Enforcement Administrators Association (MCLEAA). The award presentation took place March 12 at the organization's monthly meeting. Kovar is also an NMU alumnus. He earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 2010 and an MPA in 2021.

"It's definitely an honor to be selected for this award among so many other highly qualified law enforcement professionals in the county," he said. "The kind words from people are appreciated and quite humbling. I've been very blessed, and I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than myself. That's why I chose to work in law enforcement."

The Menominee native also attended the NMU Regional Police Academy. He began his career in December 2010 as an officer at the former Marquette General Hospital, before ascending the ranks within the NMU Police Department to his current role.

As the detective for the department, Kovar reviews all cases to ensure they are complete and accurate. He processes all criminal cases with the Marquette County Prosecutor's office and courts, and works closely with other county agencies, along with the Michigan State Police crime lab.

Kovar works collaboratively with all departments on campus, with special attention to the Dean of Students and Housing and Residence Life areas. Many days, he assists both departments with student issues and wellbeing checks. He also helps to develop policies and procedures. Kovar serves as a core member of the NMU CARE team, which meets weekly to evaluate individuals who have been referred for mental wellbeing issues.

"Jon has become a local law enforcement expert and is called upon by other departments to provide guidance on cases," wrote NMU Police Chief Mike Bath, in nominating Kovar for the award. "We have seen an uptick in more serious cases in the area, which has required an enormous amount of search warrants, especially for electronic evidence, in order to investigate the crimes thoroughly. Jon works really well with the Women's Center on criminal sexual assault and domestic violence cases, and has a good working relationship with the advocates."

Bath said Kovar serves on numerous committees on and off campus. He just finished a one-year term as chair of the Marquette County Law Enforcement Administrators Association, after working his way through various leadership positions. He also serves on the TRIAD of Marquette County committee. This group is made up of members of RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), as well as police and sheriff's departments.

"TRIAD is a collaboration of seniors and law enforcement working together to improve the quality of life and enhance the safety and well-being of seniors of Marquette County," Bath explained. "It provides education intended to reduce the criminal victimization of the elderly and elevate the delivery of law enforcement services to older citizens. The work that Jon does aligns nicely with a number of the university's core values: community, connections, innovation and opportunity."

Kovar also serves as an instructor for the NMU Regional Police Academy, the NMU Public Safety Institute and the NMU Police Department. He specializes in the following: firearms; decision-making scenario training; active violence training; taser; use of force; report writing; and domestic violence training. Bath said Kovar routinely receives the highest evaluation scores from recruits and in-service trainees, some of whom request more training from him. He is often called upon by other law enforcement agencies to provide guidance.

The 2025 MCLEAA Officer of the Year Award honors Kovar's service to both NMU and Marquette County.