I am a former FTO and Pepperball instructor. I am a current Defensive Tactics instructor and member of the East Cascade SWAT Team. I am the liaison for the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run. I have 12 years of Law Enforcement experience.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
This program is great, and the learning experience is like no other. I was nervous going back to school being twelve years out of college. I want to be able to help new students in the program, encourage them, and give them tips. I also want to give back to the program that gave me so much.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I wanted to gain more experience in leadership and further my education. This program was the least expensive and packed a lot of material. I appreciate the program structure, faculty, and USD and staff’s dedication.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
I was most concerned about online learning: I had never been to an online school. Also, the amount of work and how I would accomplish it with a family of three. Also, was I going to be able to carry the grades I wanted?
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
It provided real-life experience with writing formal memos to hypothetical personnel up the chain of command. Also, addressing conflict, communication, budgeting, and technology. I was familiar with some of the topics but had never dug into them. This program gets you ready for patrol leadership and executive-level leadership. It was topics I loved talking about and thinking about. I have already taken and implemented a lot of valuable material in my current position.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
This program is worth every penny and whether you’re nervous or anxious, it goes faster than you would think. The structure of the program is developed to favor the student work schedules and family life. Take the leap, you will not regret it. Leadership is about being selfless. You are a forever student in the field of leadership. Always look inward and outward to find the solution to the problem. Be open-minded and not be surrounded by an echo chamber. You will not have all the answers and develop the people around you to build a better culture and ensure the agency is better than when you were there.
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
My favorite part of the program was the media presentations in every class. The Ted talks, but especially the recorded live interviews with real Chiefs and executives from around the country.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
I was balancing being newly promoted two different times within the program. I balanced selling my home, moving, traveling, and work responsibilities. Unexpected events that would come up in the middle of studies. While I did not have to ask for extensions on any assignments, when I forgot to incorporate something, I was made aware of it by the professor and given an opportunity to incorporate it for a full grade.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
There were a lot of late nights completing reading, discussion boards, and assignments. The sense of accomplishment and goal achievement kept me motivated. Also, my family supported me and was excited for me when I shared my success within the program.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2024