As many as 5,000 people are expected to attend a memorial service and reception today for Michael A. Padula, 45, an Ithaca Police Department investigator who was killed on duty Nov. 17.
An 18-year IPD veteran, Padula got his start in law enforcement with Cornell's Department of Public Safety (now Cornell Police), for which he served from 1973 to 1978 before joining IPD. Over the years, he worked on many cases and joint investigations with members of Cornell Police.
"I found Mike to be a very warm and compassionate human being," said William G. Boice, director of Cornell Police. "He was a terrific officer for us and remained good friends with several department members. We'll miss him terribly."
Because such a large number of people are expected to attend today's commemoration, part of which will be held in Cornell's Barton Hall, special parking arrangements will be in effect on campus today from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many of those attending the services will be law-enforcement officers from across the state.
Members of the campus community who usually park in the Kite Hill and North lots and on the roof of the parking garage are being asked to use alternative parking lots and take advantage of regular and special bus runs.
For today only, K, H, G and D permit holders should park in the A, B and South Morrison lots and at the east end of the parking lot at East Hill Plaza. Campus bus service operates from these alternate locations.
Mary Opperman, associate vice president for human resources, said supervisors are asked to understand that some employees may be a few minutes late for work today.
"This extraordinary set of circumstances requires a special response on the part of the campus community, and we are asking faculty, staff and students to be especially understanding on Thursday," said David I. Stewart, director of community relations. "The cooperation of employees who park in the affected areas will go a long way toward accommodating guests from out of the area who will be in Barton Hall."