USD Magazine Spring 2017

L elping to lessen the many tensions around race, law enforcement and the dis- enfranchised in the United States is the focus of the Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership (MS-LEPSL) master’s program, offered through Professional and Continuing Education at USD. The program, in place for less than a year, has exceeded expectations. The incoming student goal was surpassed by 315 percent, and enrollment continues to grow. Of the student body, 42 percent represent racial and ethnic groups that have been historically underrepresented as students at USD. H

environments,” says Lemon. “Our program is for those who already know the technical components of their work and who are ready to do something about the organizational, cultural and leadership elements of their professional settings.” ieutenant Edwin Brock, a San Diego Sheriff’s Depart- ment Communications Center watch commander, is enrolled in the program’s inaugural cohort. With 24 years of experience in law enforcement, this master’s program stood out to Brock because of its originality. “I love the program because it’s something new,” says Brock. “The word ‘vanguard’ comes to mind.” For Brock, the fact that USD is a Catholic institution means social justice values are incorpo- rated throughout all aspects of the program. “God’s message is to love God and to love your neighbor,” says Brock. “Isn’t that what most police officers say? Protect and serve.” Brock says that programs such as MS-LEPSL encourage law enforcement officials to reach out to their communities by offering students cutting-edge skills and tools that include and engage them in the conversation. “USD has inspired us,” says Brock. “I’mnot afraid to be a part of the discussion. Let’s move this forward. Let’s discuss this. Let’s find a win- Rancho San Diego Command area detective, the MS-LEPSL program is more than an educa- tion; it’s her future. “I value knowledge. Learning to me is a way to freedom, a good life and joy,” says the 10-year law enforcement veteran. “Learning and gaining knowledge helps to open doors and avenues that weren’t visible before.” Obtaining a master’s degree was something Townsend had always wanted to do, but finding ning scenario for everyone.” For Tiffany Townsend, a

“This program directly engages some of the most important issues facing our country today,” says Erik Fritsvold, the program’s academic coordinator, as well as an associate professor in the Department of Sociology.

“Through the lens of social jus- tice and ethical leadership, this program serves students who have a hands-on and significant impact on our communities.” Designed following two-and-a- half years of surveys, research and

interviews with law enforcement leaders, the program aims to con- nect academia to the real world. “Our course on community engagement focuses on contro- versial use-of-force events, best practices and strategies in the wake of conflicts in cities like Baltimore and Ferguson, which have brought these issues into the national spotlight,” Fritsvold says. “The faculty team for this course is uniquely positioned to address these issues. It includes two cur- rent police chiefs, a captain, a lieu- tenant and the president of the Black Police Officers’ Association.” In addition to the program’s unique focus is the community it serves — rising and current together strategies that grapple with the reality that only 15 per- cent of those enrolled in higher education fit the ‘traditional’ pro- file,” says Jason Lemon, dean of Professional and Continuing Edu- cation. “USD has so much to offer to the ‘nontraditional’ 85 percent of the higher education popula- tion that is seeking to advance their careers, enjoy new opportu- nities and make positive changes for themselves and their families.” For Lemon, this new program signals USD’s effort to connect far beyond the immediate region and reach law enforcement leaders on the state and national levels. “It’s not a typical criminal jus- tice degree. We are offering a curriculum that targets those who desire to lead well, and by doing so, impact the culture and organization of their professional law enforcement leaders. “USD is beginning to put

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