HWS News
18 August 2026 • Service From Campus Service to Federal Service
First-generation graduate John Hillenbrand '17 builds a career dedicated to public safety.
When John Hillenbrand '17 was sworn in as a U.S. federal probation officer, it marked the latest milestone in a career defined by service, steady leadership and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.
Federal probation officer positions are among the most competitive roles in the public safety and law enforcement profession, requiring extensive experience, sound judgment and a proven record of professionalism. For Hillenbrand, the appointment represents years of preparation that began long before he entered federal service.
Following graduation, Hillenbrand continued that path of service with Finger Lakes Ambulance before joining the HWS Campus Safety team from 2018- 2020. His time on campus allowed him to build relationships across campus while developing the skills that would propel his career forward.
Seeking new opportunities, Hillenbrand accepted a position with Rochester Institute of Technology's Department of Public Safety, where he quickly advanced to become a Patrol Sergeant, supervising a shift of six officers and providing law enforcement services to a campus population of 25,000 students, faculty, staff and visitors. He later joined the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services in the Office of Counterterrorism in March of 2024, broadening his experience in emergency preparedness and public safety by conducting covert security assessments and vulnerability tests across Central and Western New York, including high-profile venues such as the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres and New York State Fair. He also trained community and private-sector partners through the “See Something, Say Something” initiative, fostering situational awareness, timely reporting and collaboration with law enforcement before earning his appointment to the federal judiciary as a U.S. federal probation officer.
Along the way, Hillenbrand earned a master’s degree in law enforcement & public safety leadership from the University of San Diego in 2024, further strengthening his knowledge and leadership skills. He is currently completing his second master’s degree in emergency management and homeland security with a concentration on cybersecurity policy and management from Arizona State University.
Despite his professional accomplishments, those who know Hillenbrand say he has never lost sight of the community that helped shape him. He regularly returns to Hobart and William Smith to speak with current students in Professor Jim Sutton’s Sociology of Policing class, sharing his experiences and offering practical advice about careers in public safety, law enforcement and emergency management. Whether visiting classes or mentoring students exploring similar career paths, he remains committed to giving back to the next generation.
His willingness to stay connected reflects the values that defined his time as a student: humility, service and a desire to make a meaningful difference.
Hillenbrand's career demonstrates that success is built not only through ambition but through a consistent commitment to serving others. From answering emergency calls as a student volunteer to serving communities at the local, state and now federal levels, each step has prepared him for increasing responsibility.
For current students considering careers in public service, Hillenbrand's journey offers a powerful example of how dedication, lifelong learning and a willingness to seize new opportunities can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As he begins this new chapter in federal service, he continues to exemplify the spirit of a Hobart and William Smith education using knowledge, experience and compassion to make a lasting impact.
