Chief Nate Tarver

OU Police Department, Norman / HSC / Tulsa

Nate Tarver reared in Tulsa, OK. Graduated from Booker T. Washington High School (1974)
Holds a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from The University of Oklahoma (1978), and a Master’s Degree from The University of Central Oklahoma (1986).
Hired by City of Moore Police Department beginning in 1979, when hired as the first African American for the city. Worked there for 10 years and obtained the supervisory rank of sergeant.
Began working at the Oklahoma City Police Department in 1989. Worked numerous assignments to include patrol, burglary/robbery detective, undercover operations, gang enforcement, drive-by shooting investigations, and public information officer. Retired July 2015, after 26 years at the rank of captain.
August 2015 was hired as the Deputy Chief of Police for the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Police Department. Appointed to Chief of Police for OU HSC in January 2017. On September 1, 2020, was promoted to Chief of Police overseeing all three University of Oklahoma Campuses and named Associate Vice President.
During his career with OCPD Nate was involved with Murrah Building bombing, numerous tornado incidents to include the 1999, 2010 and 2013 tornadoes, as well as other high-profile incidents.
Proudly served as a member of the United States Naval Reserve for seven years. In January of 2020 was inducted into the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Hall of Fame. December of 2022 was honored as a Distinguished Alum from the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism.

Last Modified on Oct 10, 2024