Michael J. Marks, who rose through the ranks of the Whitehall Township Police Department during his 18 years of service, was administered the oath of office as police chief during Monday’s meeting of the township’s board of commissioners.

Marks succeeds Linda Kulp, who retired as police chief in March. He has served as acting police chief in the interim.

Marks said he is “humbled” by the promotion to lead the police department and ensured township Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr., the board of commissioners and the community the high standards of protection the officers now provide the citizens will continue as his priority.

Lehigh County Judge Kelly L. Banach presided over the ceremony as Marks raised his right hand and, in a confident tone, took the oath of office. As a crowd of supporters and well-wishers watched from the audience, Marks’ wife, Anna-Kristie Morffi Marks, pinned the chief’s badge on her husband’s chest while their daughter, Isabella, looked on.

Among those present for the ceremony were Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin, Lehigh County Sheriff Joseph Hanna, Bethlehem Police Chief Mark DiLuzio, township police officers, Marks’ parents and other family members.

Hozza said no one but Marks was considered for the post of police chief; no search nor other interview was held. He said he is proud that Marks “is the man that will lead Whitehall Township to the future.”

Marks headed the Criminal Investigation Division, formerly known as the Detective Bureau, as lieutenant before taking on the role of acting police chief. Mentioning he will lead “with integrity,” Marks said he is proud to serve with the officers in the police department who are professional in their responsibilities to the community.

He also thanked those who guided him and had faith in him throughout his career.

Commissioners President Phillips Armstrong led board members in praising Marks for this continued service to the township.

“My dedication to the community is absolute,” Marks said.