Motyka’s professional journey began in military service, where he learned the value of teamwork, accountability and service under pressure. Those lessons became the foundation of a distinguished career in public safety and emergency management. Before joining Mercy, he served in local and federal law enforcement, gaining extensive experience in investigation, crisis response and leadership development — skills he now applies to creating a secure and responsive campus environment.
At Mercy University, Motyka oversees all aspects of campus safety, emergency planning and risk management. He is known for his calm, strategic approach and his commitment to fostering collaboration among departments to keep the university community protected and informed. For him, campus safety is more than a responsibility; it’s an extension of his lifelong mission to serve and safeguard others.
In this Q&A, Motyka reflects on his path from military and federal service to higher education, shares what he finds most rewarding about protecting the Mercy community and offers advice to students and colleagues about staying prepared, resilient and connected.
Q&A
What drew you to the field you work in and what led you to work in higher education?
I have always been attracted to the idea of service to the country and to the community; to serve something larger than myself. Following a lengthy career in federal law enforcement, working in higher education seemed an excellent fit, as I intend to pursue teaching as third and final career.
What does working at Mercy mean to you?
I enjoy helping young students to grow and mature. Firstly, by keeping them safe so they can learn and grow free from unnecessary distractions. Second, by helping them to understand their responsibilities as functional adults to adhere to basic standards and behaviors that promote respect and community so that all may grow and thrive.
What’s the most rewarding or most challenging part of your role that most people don’t realize?
The most rewarding part of the role comes when it is obvious to have made a difference in someone's life, either by extending a helping hand in a moment of crisis or by treating them in a manner that they did not expect and giving them a fresh perspective on the world of safety and security.
What accomplishment are you most proud of in your professional career?
I was a member of the FBI's Asian Organized Crime Task Force in the early 90's when violent crime and homicides in NYC's Chinatown were off the charts. Working with our partners in the NYPD and other federal agencies, we were able to completely change the situation through the dismantlement of significant organized criminal groups.
What upcoming projects, research or initiatives are you excited about?
I am excited to incorporate modern security technologies into all of the upcoming capital (construction) projects on campus.
Share a favorite Mercy University memory.
Receiving my master's degree in English literature from Mercy and walking across the stage at the County Center.
What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a freshman student about to begin their first day at Mercy University?
To take each day at a time and to understand that this is only a first step on multiyear process; that it won't always be easy, but it will always be worth it.
Do you have any hidden talents or interesting fact about you that your colleagues at Mercy might be surprised to learn about?
I am a dedicated fly fisherman and often participate in stream restoration and clean-up projects.
What song best reflects your personality?
“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
What topic could you give a 20-minute presentation on, with no preparation whatsoever?
The Battle of Saratoga.
Looking ahead, whether in your personal life, academics, or career, what are you most looking forward to and why?
I am looking forward in a few years to spending time with grandchildren!
