Today, four officers from the Houston area were among the 197 law enforcement professionals who graduated from the 289th session of the FBI’s National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. This National Academy class consisted of men and women from 47 American states, 4 military organizations, 5 federal civilian organizations, and 23 nations around the world.

FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at the graduation ceremony. The officers from the Houston area are listed below:

• Assistant Chief Edward Costello from the Texas A&M University Police Department
• Commander Tridung Tran from the Houston ISD Police Department
• Lieutenant Melencio Villarreal from the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office
• Lieutenant Christopher Zamora from the Houston Police Department

Recognized worldwide for its academic excellence, the FBI’s National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced leadership classes, communication courses, and fitness challenges. Candidates must demonstrate proven records as professionals within their agencies to even be considered for selection into the program. On average, graduates have served over 20 years in law enforcement and typically hold executive-level positions after returning to their respective agencies.

Experienced FBI instructors, special agents, and professional support teams provide specialized trainings during each National Academy session. Many of these same instructors are internationally renowned for their advanced work in various disciplines of criminology. Moreover, students can earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which has accredited many National Academy courses since 1972.

Since its inception in 1935, more than 54,980 public safety professionals have graduated from the FBI National Academy. The National Academy is held at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA at the same facility where new FBI special agents and intelligence analysts receive training and instruction.