Statement of Purpose

Now more than ever, law enforcement is a challenging profession. Our communities are

expecting police officers to solve complex societal problems and conflicts such as drug abuse,

gang violence, mental illness, and mass shootings every time, without error. Public safety leaders,

rightfully so, are being held accountable for their stewardship in these and other matters. New

ideas, technology, laws, and challenges abound in law enforcement, and leaders are responsible to

their communities to stay abreast of this knowledge. Consequently, continuous study and lifelong

learning are necessary to remain effective in our chosen field.

As a law enforcement and military leader, I have embraced educational opportunities in

my field as my career has progressed. However, I realized that my leadership journey was not yet

complete and that more hard work lay ahead of me. I was exceedingly proud the day I was

accepted as a graduate student in this program and quickly realized that while I was quite

competent at my craft, there was an incredible amount to learn from the experienced students and

faculty. I have been humbled by their experience, and endeavor to apply even just a small amount

of what this program has exposed me to.

Through the MSLEPSL program, I have endeavored to increase my effectiveness in

providing purpose, direction, and motivation to my subordinates, peers, and superiors alike.

Reflection upon my deficiencies has resulted in the work you see here, and my sincere hope is that

the reader leaves with at least a portion of what I have gained by undertaking this program of study.

This portfolio, appropriately referred to as the capstone, shows examples of what I have learned in

this environment at the University of San Diego, and hopefully reflects my pride in completing the

daunting task of graduate study in a world-class environment.