Julia Welbourne for Rochester Regional Health / May 16, 2026
New program expands coordinated response and supports safer care environments systemwide
ROCHESTER, NY – Rochester Regional Health is proud to celebrate the graduation of its inaugural class of Peace Officers, recognizing 18 team members who completed specialized training to help enhance safety and security across the health system.
The ceremony, held at Rochester General Hospital, marked a milestone in ongoing efforts to strengthen a safe and consistent care environment.
In partnership with elected officials, Rochester Regional Health helped advance New York State legislation which made their Peace Officer Program possible. The designation allows trained team members to serve as peace officers while on or adjacent to system properties, strengthening coordination with local law enforcement and response capabilities.
“Safety is not one program or one role,” said Jennifer Eslinger, President, Health Care Operations and Chief Operating Officer, Rochester Regional Health. “It is how we show up for each other every day. These graduates are stepping into that responsibility in a visible way, and we are incredibly proud of their achievement.”
“Our teams have been asking important questions about safety, and they deserve to feel supported when they come to work each day,” said Tammy Snyder, Senior Vice President of Operations, Rochester Regional Health. This is one part of our commitment to be prepared and to look out for one another across our system. We are grateful to these graduates for their dedication and effort.”
“In healthcare, people come to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” said Randy Green, MD, JD, MBA, President, Rochester General Hospital. “Creating an environment where patients, families, and care teams feel secure matters deeply. These graduates will play an important role helping support the calm, trust, and professionalism essential in a hospital setting.”
“Rochester Regional Health provides exceptional care and support for families throughout our community, and is known for its welcoming, comforting environment,” said NYS Assemblymember Harry Bronson. “I congratulate this inaugural class of peace officers on completing their rigorous training—their service will ensure that all workers, patients, and visitors are safe and secure within the RRH system. I also thank Rochester Regional Health for making this program a reality.”
“Public safety begins with protecting the people who care for our community and ensuring our healthcare facilities remain secure places for healing,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “I commend Rochester Regional Health for taking proactive, responsible action to strengthen safety across its hospitals. Congratulations and thanks to all the graduates for their dedication and service to our community.”
“Public safety is always a top priority, and every healthcare employee, patient and visitor deserves a safe, secure environment to work, heal and care for their loved ones,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Congratulations to the graduates in this inaugural class of Peace Officers, and thank you to Rochester Regional Health for its continued investment in community well-being and public safety.”
“Anyone can escalate a situation,” said Capt. Frank Umbrino, Major Crimes Unit, Rochester Police Department. “It takes professionalism, judgment, and restraint to de-escalate one. In a healthcare setting, those qualities matter every day, and this program reflects a strong commitment to supporting both caregivers and the community.”
The ceremony included remarks from health system leaders and community partners, along with a formal pinning to recognize each graduate’s achievement.
The Peace Officer Program builds on efforts already underway across Rochester Regional Health, including de-escalation training, early identification of behavioral risk, access control, screening, and coordinated response protocols.
