PFC Kevin Gaskins knows that his work doesn't end when he's off the clock. The officer - who has served the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community for nine years - recalls his top moment happened after his shift ended.

"I helped a homeless mother, father, and their newborn baby who were in Plaza Park," he says. "I was able to connect them with a social worker that I knew from working in the hospital. We made several calls and, a few hours later, we were able to get the family into temporary housing and get them vouchers for warm meals."

Gaskins says he became an officer to protect those who can't protect themselves. Prior to joining UMB, he served as a Baltimore County Police cadet for two years. He has also served as a Military Police Officer in the Army National Guard for 8 years, concurrent to his time at UMB. 

"I want to show people that there are police officers who want to make a difference," he says. The negative perception of police officers can be challenging, but he knows his actions can make a difference.

"I'm Kevin Gaskins, not just Officer Gaskins," the officer says. "There are other police officers who may leave a bad impression. We may be in the same profession, but their actions aren't mine."

Gaskins says he's proud of his work ethic and his hunger to learn new things in the constantly-evolving field of policing. He one day hopes to be a Chief of Police. 

"On someone's worst day, I want to be that glimmer of light and hope. Someone cares. I'm not just a guy in a uniform, I'm a caring human being," he says. 

For students and employees at UMB, Gaskins says officers aren't only here to protect you. "We're great listeners," he says. "If you have a problem, don't be afraid to ask. It's our job. It never bothers us."

Outside of work, Gaskins enjoys traveling and entrenching himself in the culture. He says he loves anime, especially Baki, and he is "weirdly obsessed" with tornadoes. "I want to do a storm chaser tour one summer," he says. "It's a bucket list thing."