As a law enforcement leader with over thirty years of experience, I am committed to a growth mindset and the study of leadership. I completed my Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership (LEPSL) from the University of San Diego in 2022. I also hold a Bachelor of Social Work with minors in Criminal Justice and Music Education from Missouri State University. I have completed the FBINAA Leadership Certification Program, the University of Denver’s Public Safety Leadership Development Program, FBI-LEEDA Trilogy, IACP’s Leadership in Police Organizations, and PERF’s Senior Management in Policing – Session #88.
I am passionate about being a courageous, visionary leader who will partner with the community and city leaders, support and develop its officers and professional staff, and build a legacy of leadership for the next generation. I have served over twenty-one years of my career in formal leadership roles in a diverse workforce across many assignments within the Aurora (CO) Police Department. Before that, I served as a Youth Leader and Deputy Juvenile Officer in Springfield, Missouri, for the Greene County Sheriff’s Office. Recently, I was selected as the next Chief of Police for Harrisonville, Missouri, and I will begin this new and exciting role in September of 2024. I owe much to the USD-LEPSL program and would be happy to speak to anyone about what it can do for you.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I looked long and hard for a reputable program that would be respected. Many colleagues said they just wanted the “paper,” but it was more than that for me. I wanted to be challenged! I wanted it to mean more! The USD-LEPSL program checked all the boxes. It’s a program where all the students are in the profession, providing for more robust discussions, critical thinking challenges, and a lifetime of support and encouragement beyond the classroom. I couldn’t be more proud of my “paper,” and I want to share that with others. USD-LEPSL is “next level” and can be the key to a LE professional’s success. I would love to share my experience and am proud to be an ambassador for LEPSL.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
In addition to the above, the structure was impressive, and the staff’s understanding of busy, unpredictable schedules and willingness to accommodate them were huge benefits. The school’s staff was extremely helpful, with quick responses and clear directions—moreover, USD-LEPSL consistently ranked among the best programs in the country.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
Would I have enough free time? Am I too old, or is it too late in my career? Would having a Master’s “really matter?”
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
In 2020, it was difficult to get motivated when LE morale was down nationwide, and the “defund the police” movement was strong. USD-LEPSL reinvigorated my purpose and helped me redefine my “why.” It opened my eyes to others across the country experiencing the same challenges. I have made lifelong connections that will continue to encourage and support me for the rest of my career and life. You can’t put a price on that benefit. Professionally, I used some of the projects from the classroom in my agency. Ultimately, my chief appointed me to oversee our training academy. While there, I created a Leadership Development Program within our agency and was later placed in charge of Organizational Development for the entire department. The significant achievement came when I was recently named the new Chief of Police in Harrisonville, Missouri. USD-LEPSL and my experiences in the classroom played a massive role in these successes, and I could not be more grateful.
What advice would you give to someone to be a more effective leader?
There are millions of opinions on how to be a great leader. Books, podcasts, and newsletters abound. I believe it first starts with being a good human. Treat people like adults. Give them the knowledge, skills, and equipment to do their job, and then hold them accountable by coaching them up. Sometimes, accountability must come in the form of discipline. Do not be afraid of this part of the job. Give your followers a voice, and then shut up and listen. I promise you will not always be the smartest person in the room. We can learn volumes of good stuff from our folks. That leads me to be HUMBLE! Approach your role as a leader with great humility, and your followers will take note. Be courageous. Defend your followers when they do the right thing! A sellout who says what they think the boss or community wants to hear will fail. I have seen ego, selfishness, and selling out bring down many a leader because their people will refuse to follow. Finally, adopt a growth mindset and never stop learning. You must be able to provide your folks with answers to everything from case law, search and seizure, communications, and tactics to wellness and self-care options. Officers will go through walls for a well-rounded, humble, caring leader every time!
Did you have a favorite instructor?
Dr. Fritsvold. He created the program and brings a passion for improving LE leadership around the country. He is also very supportive and cares about your future success; this is genuine, and I have experienced it firsthand.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
I was working as a District Captain (the #2) of our largest district (50 sq. miles, 155,000 pop, and 140 sworn/civilian staff). I was fortunate that our kids were grown and out of the house. This afforded me more free time to complete assignments. However, I am aware of many much busier colleagues. Their instructors afforded them accommodations to ensure they stayed on top of their assignments.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
The instructors, guest interviewers and interviewees, reading materials, and discussion boards were motivating enough. The USD-LEPSL program generates a desire to get on the computer, log in, and learn.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2022