To help support partner relationships, the FBI offers National Academy training, a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement managers nominated by their agency heads because of demonstrated leadership qualities. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 11 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.

One hundred and ninety-eight law enforcement officers graduated recently from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 288th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 45 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations, and six federal civilian organizations.

Locally, graduates of the class include officers from two FBI Springfield partner agencies in the Illinois counties of Sangamon and St. Clair.

• Andrew Dodd – Deputy Chief, Springfield Police Department
• Michael Mojzis –Captain, O’Fallon Police Department

“The FBI’s National Academy helps build strong partnerships that are crucial to everything we do,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge David Nanz. “Graduates return to their agencies with new knowledge and new friendships that forge lifelong connections and enhance our ability to keep communities safe when threats arise.”

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.

A total of 54,763 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since its inception 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.

More information about the FBI’s National Academy can be found online.