ACTON — Chief James Cogan is pleased to report that Deputy Chief Douglas Sturniolo graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy last week.
On Thursday, June 5, Deputy Chief Sturniolo was among 239 law enforcement officers from across the country who graduated from the academy in Quantico, Va., where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
The 294th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 48 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 14 countries, six military organizations, and four federal civilian organizations.
Training at the FBI National Academy serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad, and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge and cooperation worldwide. Classes are offered in a diverse set of areas, and officers participate in a wide range of leadership and specialized trainings. Officers share ideas, techniques, and experiences and create lifelong partnerships that transcend state and national borders.
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino delivered remarks at the ceremony. Class spokesperson Brandt “BT” Carmical with the Camp Robinson Police Department in North Little Rock, Ark., represented the graduating officers.
A total of 56,180 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.
Participants in the academy can take personalized classes, and Deputy Sturniolo took classes focused on Officer Wellness and Resilience, Managing the Law Enforcement Image, and Legal Issues Impacting Law Enforcement Operations.
“One key lesson was the importance of building trust and networks across agencies worldwide,” said Deputy Sturniolo. “Engaging with over 200 law enforcement leaders from 48 states and 14 countries taught me the value of sharing best practices and fostering partnerships to address complex challenges.”
In addition to classroom instruction, the FBI National Academy also focuses on physical fitness, with participants engaging in three workouts per week, leading up to a final physical fitness test known as the Yellow Brick Road. The Yellow Brick Road is a 6.1-mile running course that passes through hilly, wooded terrain, with obstacles built into the course. All graduates must complete the course.
“I want to thank Chief James Cogan and Town Manager John Mangiaratti for making my attendance at the FBINA possible,” said Deputy Sturniolo. “I also want to thank the men and women of the Acton Police Department, whose dedication and support inspired me through this journey. A special thank you goes to my family for their patience, encouragement, and support over the past 10 weeks, which were vital to my success in this challenging endeavor.”
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