READING, PA – The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) Board of Directors recognized Chief County Detective Michael J. Gombar as the 2023 recipient of the BCIU Outstanding Community Partner Award at their August 17, 2023, Board meeting. In attendance to celebrate this recognition were Berks County District Attorney John Adams and Chief County Detective Gombar’s command staff. This is the ninth year this annual award has been conferred by the BCIU. Some of the criteria in the selection of the recipient includes the following:
- Demonstrates an understanding of the importance and role of the BCIU.
- Advocates in the community for the BCIU and the students / constituents served.
- Must be someone outside the BCIU (non-employee) who believes strongly in educational services and has demonstrated that commitment through their actions over time.
- Must be a recognized leader in their respective field and a member of the Berks County community.
Chief County Detective Michael J. Gombar has served in his role since 2008. He is highly trained, has had an extensive career and experience in law enforcement, and has demonstrated his ongoing commitment to serve and protect the residents of Berks County and advocate for a safe community.
Chief County Detective Michael J. Gombar is a respected and dedicated leader, accessible as a resource and responsive to the needs of the BCIU and the education community. His consistent communication has provided BCIU and education leaders with invaluable insights, guidance, and information regarding sensitive situations that affect the students and schools of Berks County. This, in addition to his leadership, has enabled the education community to act in a proactive manner and has been critical to making connections with Berks County Detectives and coordinating cases that cross borders.
Under the leadership of Chief County Detective Michael J. Gombar, the Berks County Detectives have remained dedicated to the Berks County education community by partnering with the BCIU and other key stakeholders to support impactful school safety, security, and emergency preparedness initiatives; the BCIU’s Keeping Kids Safe program; and other county-wide programs addressing student health and well-being.
“Chief County Detective Gombar is truly deserving of being named our 2023 Outstanding Community Partner. This distinction acknowledges his exceptional leadership and speaks of how highly he is regarded by the BCIU and as an advocate for the more than 70,000 students in Berks County, our schools, and the Berks County community. We are proud to honor and recognize his commitment and the vital role he plays to enhance school safety efforts and ensure a safer community. We are sincerely grateful for his collaboration and guidance.”
––Dr. Jill M. Hackman, BCIU Executive Director
The Berks County Intermediate Unit offers congratulations and sincere gratitude to Chief County Detective Gombar for his leadership and for being a valued partner of the BCIU.