My name is Jamison Maehler, and I currently serve as a lieutenant with the Seattle Police Department, overseeing the Criminal Intelligence Unit. I have been with the Seattle Police Department for almost ten years, serving in several capacities, including Patrol, Bicycle Patrol, Field Training Officer, Civil Disobedience Management, and Anti-Crime Teams. Before law enforcement, I served six years in the U.S. Army, completing one tour of duty in Afghanistan. I earned my undergraduate degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2009. I have been married to my amazing wife for over 12 years and have two daughters, ages 5 and 7.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I am inspired to be a LEPSL program ambassador for three primary reasons. First, the program’s mission and goals are paramount. Law enforcement needs dedicated leaders committed to growth and learning, and this program reflects that by offering an ever-evolving and relevant curriculum shaped by input from real leaders facing real challenges. Second, I am committed to being an ambassador to continue growing with the program and maintaining communication with a diverse range of leaders. Staying engaged with the program maintains its most crucial element: promoting open communication with fellow leaders of all ranks and organizations. Lastly, I am eager to give back to the LEPSL program and aid in its expansion. By highlighting the program’s benefits and facilitating honest discussions, I can attract more participants, enhancing the program and reinforcing its crucial role in modern law enforcement and leadership. Being an ambassador of such a tremendous program is an honor and a privilege.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I decided to join the LEPSL program because I realized that what has brought me this far in life will not take me to the next level. To advance personally, I knew that pursuing a master’s program was my next logical step. I have a strong belief in the law enforcement profession. I am committed to enhancing it in any way possible, so I sought out programs focused on public safety leadership. During my research of academic institutions, the LEPSL program consistently stood out to me due to its positive testimonials, relevant curriculum, user-friendly website, and the fact that it has been recognized as one of America’s top online criminal justice master’s programs by US News & World Report for six consecutive years. None of the other programs I looked into offered this winning combination, ultimately making my decision much easier. Since joining the program, I have only become more confident that I made the right choice. The curriculum constantly evolves and stays relevant, and the professors are exceptional experts who encourage growth. Moreover, the faculty and staff working behind the scenes are continually in touch and conduct themselves professionally. It’s awe-inspiring how well-organized and comprehensive this program is from top to bottom.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
When I first considered starting a graduate program, I had several concerns. One major worry was balancing the demanding workload of graduate studies with my existing personal and professional responsibilities. I was concerned about finding enough time to manage coursework, research, and other commitments while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Another concern was the pressure to meet high academic expectations and the potential stress that could come with rigorous coursework and research responsibilities. Lastly, I was anxious about adapting to a new educational environment, especially in a format different from my undergraduate studies. Despite these concerns, I am motivated by the graduate program’s opportunities and growth and am committed to addressing these challenges as they arise. The program has been challenging and thought-provoking, but most of my concerns faded quickly.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
The LEPSL program has been instrumental in advancing my career in law enforcement leadership. Its specialized curriculum has given me essential knowledge in leadership, media relations, crisis management, community relations, and strategic planning. The thought-provoking assignments and case studies have improved my practical skills. At the same time, participating in leadership dialogues via the discussion boards has equipped me with a more well-informed and pragmatic thought process to tackle any problem. Networking opportunities with fellow law enforcement professionals and mentors have opened doors to collaborative projects and career advancement. The LEPSL program has provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and connections to excel in public safety leadership, aligning with my initial program goal.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
A piece of advice I would share with a prospective LEPSL student is that the law enforcement profession is comprised of tremendous people who have also faced difficult times. By participating in the LEPSL program, you commit yourself to improving this great profession, finding solutions to complex problems, and preventing this noble profession from encountering the next possible friction point. The coursework can be demanding, and there certainly is a time commitment, but our profession needs leaders committed to growth and improvement. The LEPSL program will forge bonds with tremendous minds nationwide and abroad as we collectively work to move our profession toward a better tomorrow. By joining the program, you have the immense opportunity to shape the curriculum for those who come after you and take a step in ultimately improving law enforcement and public safety leadership. Anyone who engages in the LEPSL program will confidently progress towards bettering themselves and those who work around you and the department you represent.
What is your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
One of my favorite parts of the LEPSL program is the variety of assignments. Not only do the assignments differ from course to course, but they also vary from one module to the next. In LEPSL, you are free from the routine and monotonous expectation of completing a paper with vague restrictions and the same expectation week in and week out. During my time with LEPSL, I have completed written assignments, presentations, official memos, and community reports. Each assignment does a tremendous job of reinforcing the module material and provides an opportunity to be unique and creative. The assignments are as interesting as the materials, which I did not expect. I routinely look ahead to the following week to see what type of assignment will be coming up. It has been a welcoming change to academia.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
While participating in the LEPSL program, I carefully balanced multiple responsibilities. My wife and family are my top priorities at home, and I strive to provide them with the best version of myself. Sharing household duties and actively engaging in my children’s lives—whether coaching their sports teams or supporting their extracurricular activities—has been a crucial part of my life. Professionally, I serve as a lieutenant for a major metropolitan police department facing severe staffing shortages and leadership changes. Managing these demanding responsibilities, alongside the rigorous demands of the LEPSL program, required careful time management and dedication. Each aspect of my life is integral to who I am, and finding a balance among them has been essential for maintaining my professional effectiveness and personal well-being.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
Staying motivated throughout the LEPSL program amidst competing priorities has been challenging but manageable, thanks to a few key strategies. First, I kept my “why” front and center—reminding myself of the personal and professional goals that drove me to pursue this degree helped sustain my motivation. A written action plan was also critical; it provided structure and clarity, making it easier to balance the program with my other responsibilities. LEPSL 501 was instrumental in establishing this foundational plan, offering the initial spark to set me on the right path.
While motivation is essential for starting the LEPSL journey, discipline is the key to long-term success. Although it is vital to dedicate the necessary effort to coursework, staying focused at work, spending quality time with my family, and maintaining a healthy balance through sleep, exercise, and personal interests are equally important. Understanding that everyone has the same 24 hours a day underscores the importance of effective time management. By carefully allocating my time and staying disciplined, I could effectively navigate the program’s demands while managing my professional and personal commitments.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2025