Jacksonville, AL – Forty-four law enforcement officers from 25 agencies across Alabama have embarked on a journey as the inaugural class of students at Jacksonville State University’s Southeastern Leadership Command College. This nine-week program, which commenced this week, is dedicated to equipping police officers with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and manage departments and agencies effectively.
The Southeastern Leadership Command College is the first program of its kind in Alabama, designed to provide professional development specifically tailored for senior leaders in law enforcement. Targeting police chiefs and sheriffs, the program also aims to groom individuals at the sergeant and lieutenant levels for future leadership roles within their respective agencies.
The comprehensive curriculum of Command College focuses on general management and leadership principles. Key areas covered include conflict resolution, fiscal responsibilities, and an exploration of the complex political, legal, and social environment within which law enforcement operates. This holistic approach ensures that participants receive a well-rounded education that prepares them to tackle the multifaceted challenges of leading law enforcement agencies.
Kaleb Littlejohn, the director of the Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement, expressed satisfaction with the program’s progress on the second day of classes. He commended the participants for their high level of engagement and eagerness to learn, highlighting their commitment to personal and professional growth. The positive atmosphere within the program bodes well for its success in shaping future leaders in law enforcement.
Jacksonville State University has been at the forefront of supporting Alabama law enforcement through various programs and initiatives over the past decade. In addition to the Southeastern Leadership Command College, the university hosts other notable programs like the Center for Applied Forensics, the Alabama Investigator Academy, and the Jax State Cold Case Program. The Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy, based at the university, further underscores its commitment to providing comprehensive training opportunities for law enforcement professionals.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Command College in January, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall commended Jacksonville State University for its significant impact on law enforcement and the communities it serves. Marshall emphasized the university’s role in not only investing in law enforcement but also supporting victims and their families in the pursuit of justice.
Admission to the Southeastern Leadership Command College is open to any Alabama police officer holding the rank of sergeant or above. Notably, the program is offered free of charge for sworn law enforcement officers in the state. The next session is scheduled to begin in October, providing an opportunity for more officers to benefit from this invaluable leadership training. For additional information, interested parties can contact the Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement at CBPLE@jsu.edu.
