NEWARK, NJ—The FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, graduated 128 law enforcement officers last week, including three from New Jersey. Egg Harbor Township Police Lieutenant Cherie Burgan, Passaic Police Captain Gabriel Guzman, and New Jersey State Police Lieutenant Jafca Mandziuk were among the men and women from 41 states and the District of Columbia who completed the 11 weeks of training and became the 280th class to graduate. The class also included members of law enforcement agencies from 3 countries, five military organizations, and seven federal civilian organizations.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 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.

“My congratulations to the three members of our law enforcement community in New Jersey for completing this comprehensive training,” said Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch, Jr. “The National Academy is, historically, an important tool for the FBI’s field offices. It allows us to share and exchange ideas with our neighboring law enforcement partners as well as provide some of our tools, methods, and knowledge. Graduates come away with a better understanding of how we operate and we learn from them, as well, which translates to a better working relationship in the years that follow. We are appreciative of all of our New Jersey brothers and sisters in blue who have taken the time to attend and complete this training.”

FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at the ceremony. Class spokesperson Rudy Perez of the Los Angeles School Police Department represented the graduating officers.

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 many of the courses offered.

A total of 52,923 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.