I have been in law enforcement for over 23 years. I have held numerous assignments throughout my career in law enforcement. I am currently a detective sergeant in a small city in Solano County, Calif. My greatest accomplishment is being able to facilitate and foster a culture of fairness and transparency within my agency. Additionally, as a Marine Corps veteran, I bring a unique perspective and discipline to my role. Completing my four-year degree and now pursuing my Master’s has further equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead effectively and make a positive impact in my community.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
What motivated me to become a LEPSL ambassador is the desire to improve public safety and community well-being. I have a passion for enhancing leadership skills, advocating for fairness and transparency within law enforcement, and fostering stronger community relationships. Additionally, I want to seek opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and networking with other professionals in the field. I also have a strong desire to give back to others and make a positive impact and also play a significant role in their motivation.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I choose the LEPSL program because it stands out for several compelling reasons: its high standards and comprehensive, law enforcement-specific curriculum; specialized focus on unique public safety challenges; expert faculty with practical experience; emphasis on real-world application of leadership theories; strong community and networking opportunities; flexible learning options for professionals; and a commitment to incorporating the latest research and innovations in public safety leadership. These factors make LEPSL an exceptional choice for advancing careers in law enforcement and public safety.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
My concerns about starting a graduate program include balancing coursework with professional and personal responsibilities, academic rigor, maintaining work-life balance, ensuring a good return on investment, adjusting to student life after being in the workforce, building relationships in an online or hybrid environment, and adapting to online learning platforms. Many programs offer resources and support to help students address these concerns and the LEPSL staff has stepped out to the plate and made my experiences pleasant and enjoyable.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
The LEPSL program helped me achieve my career goals by providing advanced leadership training tailored to law enforcement, offering specialized knowledge of public safety challenges, and emphasizing the practical application of theories. It expanded my professional network, offered flexible learning options, kept me updated on the latest innovations and best practices, and directly contributed to my career growth and advancement in leadership positions.
What advice would you share with a prospective LEPSL applicant?
Define your goals and align them with your career aspirations. Be prepared to invest time and effort into your studies, leveraging the program’s resources. Engage actively in all aspects of the program, stay organized with a study schedule, seek constructive feedback, and apply what you learn to your current role for immediate benefits and improvements.
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
My favorite part of the LEPSL program is the emphasis on current issues in law enforcement. The program’s focus on real-world scenarios and challenges allowed me to immediately implement new strategies and leadership techniques within my agency. Additionally, the opportunity to connect and collaborate with a diverse group of professionals from various backgrounds enriched my learning experience and expanded my professional network.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
While participating in the LEPSL program, I balanced my professional responsibilities as a detective sergeant, personal life commitments, and academic work, including coursework and discussions. To achieve this, I implemented a daily schedule and set personal deadlines in my digital calendar. I also maintained consistent study habits by dedicating time at the end of each day to focus on the curriculum’s expectations. Additionally, I prioritized effective time management by breaking tasks into manageable chunks and using productivity tools to stay organized. Regularly reviewing my progress and adjusting my schedule as needed helped me stay on track and meet both my academic and professional goals.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
I stay motivated by setting clear goals, maintaining a structured routine, tracking my progress, seeking support from peers and family members, balancing priorities through effective time management, and keeping the long-term benefits in mind. These strategies help me manage competing responsibilities and stay committed to the program.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2025