Originally published on December 22, 2021.
Kim Riddle is but one of thousands of students who saw their lives change through the many avenues for study at SUU, and her decision to change majors mid-stream has made a profound difference in not only her destiny but in the lives of countless others.
A Cedar City native whose father, the late Steve Thomas, was for many years a successful local businessman and strong SUU supporter, it was her aim to major in business here. However, the opportunity to take some criminal justice courses caused her to change her own course following her sophomore year.
She’s now been a Utah Highway Patrol state trooper for 20 years and has made a decided difference in her state though a number of vital assignments over that time.
She’s served in patrol, narcotic investigations, alcohol enforcement and is now a member of the UHP training staff specializing in DUI (Driving Under the Influence) enforcement and education. She teaches at the Utah Police Academy in DUI-related subjects, and also provides training to active law enforcement officers.
“I love knowing that my work directly impacts the safety of those in our community,” she says, and is quick to acknowledge her Thunderbird experience as a catalyst for success.
“I felt accomplished and driven at SUU,” she says. “I developed relationships that I still nurture and value. The University helped me find what I was passionate about and the direction I wanted my life to go.”
She lauds retired faculty member Lamar Jordan, the smaller classes and the quality of instruction therein, the beauty of the campus and the wide spectrum of events and activities as hallmarks of her days on campus.
She and her husband Ryan have a son and daughter, and love to travel, attend Thunderbird athletic events and spend time together as a family.
Tags: Criminal Justice
