Hickory Hills welcomed Adam Gulczynski as the city’s ninth chief of police during a ceremonial swearing-in at the city council meeting on Thursday, Feb. 27.
Gulczynski, a 20-year veteran of the Hickory Hills Police Department, was joined by his wife, Colleen, and children, Cordelia, Adam, and John, as he took the oath of office. The ceremony highlighted his progression from patrol officer to detective, sergeant, deputy chief, and now chief.
Over the years, Gulczynski has worked on felony cases in Hickory Hills and surrounding areas. He has specialized training in violent crime investigations, constitutional law, courtroom testimony, media relations, and community engagement. He also served as a supervisor on the Suburban Major Crimes Task Force and a commander of the Southwest Major Crimes Task Force. Additionally, he was a member of the All Our Children’s Advocacy Center’s child abuse investigative resource team.
Within the department, he has taken on roles including evidence technician, firearms instructor, juvenile officer, use-of-force instructor, and lead homicide investigator. As deputy chief, he oversaw fleet and equipment maintenance, technology acquisitions, grant writing, recruitment, department training, officer wellness programs, and other department initiatives. He also managed the Hickory Hills Telecommunications Center and coordinated Special Olympics fundraisers while frequently serving as the department’s public information officer.
Gulczynski is a certified instructor through the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, training officers statewide in lead homicide investigations, sexual assault investigations, school resource officer training, and trauma-informed response for patrol. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Management and is a recent graduate of the FBI National Academy. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public safety at the University of Virginia.
“It’s truly an honor to serve this great community,” Gulczynski said. “Hickory Hills has always been a wonderful place, and I’m committed to serving its residents to the best of my ability.”
He thanked Mayor Mike Howley, the city council, his colleagues, and his family for their support. “Every day is a learning experience for me, and I’m only here today because of all the lessons I’ve learned from all of you.”
Mayor Mike Howley praised Gulczynski’s leadership. “Adam has dedicated two decades to our police department, and his leadership and experience will guide us forward.”
Gulczynski also acknowledged his family’s sacrifices. “From late-night callouts to long hours on projects, my family has been incredibly patient and supportive,” he said. “Colleen actually found the job posting in the newspaper that led me to this career, and she’s been along for the ride ever since.”
The ceremony also included the swearing-in of Deputy Chief Jim Compton, who joined the department in 2005. He has served as a canine officer, detective, and sergeant before being promoted to lieutenant in 2024. Gulczynski spoke highly of Compton’s dedication. “Jim is always eager to help, whether it’s coordinating events or ensuring officer well-being.”
Following the ceremony, city officials and attendees gathered for a reception. Mayor Howley said, “We are confident that Chief Gulczynski will continue to uphold the values of our community and strengthen our department.”
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