Meeting the officers behind the Ohio State University Police Department (OSUPD) grants unique insights into the lives and motivations of those tasked with keeping the university community safe. One such individual, Patrol Officer Nana Amoako, has served with the OSUPD since December 2020. In a feature published by the department, Amoako shared his experiences and the path that led him to serve at Ohio State. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, Amoako credits his upbringing and education for instilling in him the values of humility, equality, and respect.

His personal history deeply influenced Amoako's journey to becoming an officer. According to an OSU DPS interview, "I grew up in a Law enforcement community. My Dad retired as a Police Officer in Ghana after 40 years of service in 2012." This family legacy, coupled with his desire to continue to serve after a military career, spurred him to pursue a role in policing. The Ohio State University Police Department allowed him to engage with a community quickly he could protect and serve.

Amoako shed light on what makes policing at Ohio State a unique challenge. "We care for and provide a safe learning environment for students," he said in the same interview. But the responsibility extends beyond students to staff, faculty, and visitors of the university's hospitals, bringing him in contact with a diverse population, each with their own needs and stories.

The reasons behind Amoako's decision to serve are rooted in a belief echoed across cultures and societies. "I serve because I believe there is more blessing in giving than receiving," he told the Ohio State University Department of Public Safety's website. His service is not only for the community but is also a legacy he wishes to leave for his children, exemplifying the virtues of giving back and protecting the vulnerable.

Amoako dedicates time to his family and personal development when not on duty. "I spend time with my wife and three children, and take Jiu-Jitsu classes," he explained through the website of the Ohio State University Department of Public Safety. For Amoako, the ties to the Buckeye Nation are more than professional, it's a source of pride and tradition. As he put it, "The global impact, the lifelong connections, the pride, and the traditions of the Buckeye Nation makes an enjoyable experience, and fosters a sense of community and belongingness."