I was previously the commanding officer of the Professional Standards Section for two years, and I work in the chief’s office as the liaison with our Police Accountability Board.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
After researching master’s degree programs, I came across the LEPSL program. I conducted research into the University of San Diego and the curriculum. This is by far the most practical and applicable program to law enforcement. When I found the program, I spoke with four other members of my department who immediately jumped on board. Another one has since joined. As an 18-year veteran in my department, LEPSL topics are discussed almost daily in the chief’s office. I want to spread the word about the program and explain to those interested that it is beneficial and worthwhile. I say this as I juggle a family life with a wife and three young boys and the workload I manage within a sensitive position in my department. If I can do this, others can too, and I want to help be the motivator behind someone’s decision to enroll in the program.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
The curriculum, how it is structured, the format, and the capstone class.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
Family life, work life, and time management. Hesitation about writing assignments since I had not been in academia since 2006.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
Having been in administrative assignments throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to propose and implement different ideas and training. The topics we discuss and learn about in LEPSL have helped benefit my department and allowed us to have open discussions about shifting the culture within our department. The program has allowed me to reference what other departments do and how they handle situations. We learn best practices and must apply what we learn in our writing assignments. The LEPSL program that I will complete on December 9, 2024, will help me in the future as I consider potential promotions or opportunities within my agency or outside agencies.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
I would share with prospective LEPSL applicants that this program will sharpen their minds and make them think outside the box. It will set them up internally and externally and may open other doors. I am going to the FBI National Academy in January, and completing this program will set me up for success in January. This program will help promote future leaders, and even if they do not want to be leaders, the insight that is taught and learned is invaluable.
What was your favorite LEPSL course?
Contemporary issues in law enforcement was the most relevant and current class, covering issues that every department is facing. I liked learning about technology and ways we can combat crime while keeping our officers safe and improving efficiency with less staffing.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
I have a wife and three boys, now 8, 3, and 1. The 1-year-old was born while I was in the program, so I managed a newborn while completing my assignments on time and never turned them in late. I have a high-profile position in the department where decisions that are made are frequently discussed in the news, and it is stressful at times and very time-consuming. Regular day-to-day tasks and taking care of the household while trying to be present and complete the program are challenging but manageable.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
I think big picture and know that the program will pay off and help my family. The LEPSL degree will promote my abilities and benefit me in the future. Our department has tuition reimbursement, so it would be a mistake not to enroll in this program and learn as much as possible.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2024