I am a native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee and a United Stats Marine Corps veteran. I began my law enforcement career in 1995 at the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office where I worked as a Patrol Deputy for four years. In 1999, I left the Sheriff’s Office and began working for the Murfreesboro Police Department serving in multiple different roles. I was a member of my agency’s SWAT Team for twenty years and commanded that unit from 2013 until 2023.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I have been promoting this program for years and wish to continue to encourage law enforcement professionals in a more formal capacity.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
After seeing the LEPSL program advertised in NTOA and other law enforcement publications, I decided to inquire. I had been toying with getting my master’s for some time. I was drawn to the program at USD because of the staff. They were very responsive and communicated with me frequently throughout the process. USD’s staff eliminated all the unknowns and made my application/registration simple.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
I was concerned with the amount of time it would take and the financial burden.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
Since graduating from LEPSL I have been promoted to Deputy Chief of my agency. I felt better prepared for the process because of the current issues in law enforcement I learned, in depth, while in the LEPSL program.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants? What advice would you give to someone to be a more effective leader?
Do not be concerned with time. I was able to complete my final LEPSL semester while attending the National Academy. Schedule your schoolwork weekly and everything will be fine.
I believe the key to being a more effective leader is to never stop exposing yourself to educational opportunities and to be bold. Learn from your mistakes and embrace the wisdom you gain from them.
What was the most unexpected part of the LEPSL program?
The most unexpected part of the program for me was the community. The value of having contacts in the law enforcement profession from across the country was and continues to be amazing.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
During my final semester, I was attending the National Academy in Quantico. I was able to enjoy my experience and continue to complete my school assignments. It was a lot, but still manageable.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
My department does not provide tuition assistance so money was a great motivator for me. Other things that kept me on track were my family’s support, my administration’s support, and the regular feedback from LEPSL advisors.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2023