The Bristol Township School District and Bristol Cares are honored to congratulate C.J. Winik, Chief of the Bristol Township Police Department, for being this year’s recipient of the ROAR Alumni Award. Winik, Class of 1997, was honored with the award at the Senior Honors Night at Harry S Truman High School on June 4.
Born and raised in Bristol Township, Winik was humbled to receive the award.
“When I look back at my time in the Bristol Township School District, I remember the teachers, coaches, mentors and friends who invested in me,” he said. “To now be recognized by that same community is something I never expected, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the township that I have always called home.”
Winik has dedicated his career to public service. He graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, and joined the Bristol Township Police Department in 2006. He served in a variety of specialized roles, including accident reconstructionist, firearms instructor, and SWAT team member. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2019 and Lieutenant in 2022 before being appointed Chief of Police in July 2025.
“I grew up right here in Bristol Township, attended Truman High School and never imagined that one day I would have the privilege of serving as Chief of Police in the same community,” said Winik.
The police department is very involved with Bristol Township School District and Bristol Cares, allowing officers and the community to connect in meaningful ways.
“Building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community starts with trust, and that trust is built long before someone calls 911,” said Winik.
“Organizations like Bristol Cares and the school district are investing in the future of our community every day. As a police department, we have a responsibility to be part of that effort. When we work together, we create opportunities for young people to succeed, and ultimately, that makes Bristol Township a safer and stronger community for everyone.”
The Bristol Police Athletic League (PAL), where students and police officers play sports, such as kickball, basketball or flag football, is one way they are building those relationships.
“It allows us to earn trust, provide mentorship and show that we genuinely care about students’ success,” said Winik. “Some of the best moments are seeing a student who may have been hesitant around police at first eventually feel comfortable enough to have conversations, ask questions and build lasting relationships. That’s what PAL is really about.”
Winik hopes BTSD students understand that where they come from doesn’t limit where they can go.
“Success isn’t about having all the answers from the beginning. It’s about working hard, treating people with respect, staying committed to your goals and being willing to serve something greater than yourself,” he said. “I encourage graduates to pursue their passions, embrace challenges, and remember that they have the ability to make a positive impact wherever life takes them.”
Winik thanked his family, colleagues, mentors and residents of the community who have supported him throughout his career.
“Investing in the next generation is one of the most important things we can do, and I am proud to be a part of a community that is committed to that mission,” he said.
The ROAR Alumni Award is an annual initiative in partnership with Bristol Cares and the Bristol Township School District to recognize graduates who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service and professional achievement.
If you would like to nominate Bristol Township Alumni for consideration for a future award, please complete this nomination form or email BristolCaresCoalition@gmail.com
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