Lieutenant Jay Alvarado has proudly served the City of La Verne for 20 years, dedicating his career to various key roles within the department. His experience includes a decade on the Foothill Special Enforcement Team (Swat team), where he contributed significantly to high-level operations and tactics. Over the years, Lt. Alvarado has also held roles and ranks of Corporal, Field Training Officer, HOST officer, Detective, and Sergeant. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping impactful programs focused on Homeless Outreach, Mental Health, and Wellness, designed to support both the community and his fellow officers. Lt. Alvarado holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology from the University of La Verne and a master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety leadership from the University of San Diego.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
The program was highly relevant and directly applicable to modern-day policing. It played a crucial role in my professional development, fostering continual growth, expanding my network, and opening up promotional opportunities. I have observed similar positive outcomes for others in my department, including our Chief of Police, demonstrating its value in adapting to the evolving demands of contemporary law enforcement.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
The LEPSL program came highly recommended by respected colleagues and mentors in the law enforcement field. After researching various programs, I found that LEPSL stood out for its focus on the most up-to-date strategies addressing the current challenges faced by law enforcement today.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
Starting the program brought a sense of uncertainty, as I worried about finding the balance between my family, work, and the additional responsibilities that came with it. The unknowns were daunting, and I struggled with stepping outside my comfort zone, unsure of how it would impact my life moving forward.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
The program has allowed me to stay current with the evolving concepts in policing and leadership. It has sharpened my critical thinking skills and broadened my perspective, allowing me to approach challenges with greater insight and adaptability. I am better equipped to serve my agency as a more well-rounded leader, capable of guiding my team with a deeper understanding and a more strategic approach.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
My advice to prospective students is to take the leap and invest in yourself. Early on, I made excuses to delay my education, thinking it would be too challenging to balance with my responsibilities. The reality is that law enforcement now more than ever values educated and forward-thinking leaders who are equipped to navigate the complexities of modern policing. Embracing education enhances your ability to lead and strengthens your impact on your agency and the community.
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
My favorite part of the LEPSL program was engaging with my classmates in the discussion boards. Our discussions and sharing of ideas, concepts, and strategies were invaluable. These interactions allowed me to gain diverse perspectives and practical insights, which I now apply daily in my role. The exchange of real-world experiences and innovative approaches enriched my learning and created lasting connections with others in the field. Those collaborative moments were essential in shaping my growth as a leader, and the lessons I learned from my peers continue to influence my approach to leadership and problem-solving.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
During the LEPSL program, I was juggling the demands of a busy family, including four children actively involved in travel and club sports, alongside my professional responsibilities. As a watch commander, I was responsible for overseeing a patrol shift and various critical programs, including homeless outreach, mental health initiatives, and agency wellness. Balancing these commitments required careful time management, but the experience taught me invaluable skills in prioritization, resilience, and leadership.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
My motivation stemmed from a desire to become a better person, not just for my profession and agency but also for my family. I wanted to grow in ways that would positively impact my career and my role as a parent. Walking across the stage at graduation was one of the most rewarding moments of my life, as it symbolized the fulfillment of a personal and professional journey driven by my commitment to self-improvement and those I care about most.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2024