LULETA and Columbia Police Department Celebrate First Graduating Class of Recruits

Class 1 graduates of Columbia Police Training Academy with Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy director Gary Hill. Photo credit: Brian McNeil, Columbia Police Department

On Friday, March 14, the Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA), in partnership with the Columbia, Missouri, Police Department (CPD), graduated the first group of recruits to complete training under the newly established partnership. This event celebrated the dedication, perseverance, and commitment of the recruits who successfully completed their training and are ready to serve their communities.

LULETA announced its partnership with CPD in September 2024, strengthening its mission to provide high-quality, accredited law enforcement training that meets the evolving needs of Missouri’s communities. Through this collaboration, recruits undergo rigorous academic and practical training, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of modern policing.

“This partnership has been a significant step forward in expanding access to quality law enforcement training while strengthening ties between Columbia’s police force and the community,” said Columbia Police Chief Jill Schlude. “We are proud of these recruits and confident they will serve with integrity and dedication.”

The first recruit class of the Columbia Police Training Academy includes the following graduates:

Graduates:

• Logan Arellanes
• Aron Carpenter
• Chad Drinnon
• Donald Eveler
• Jerry Figgins
• Nathan Harrell
• Benjamin Ludwig
• Dakota Melson
• Adam Nelson
• Lane Pierce
• Matthew Reilly
• Tyler Richerson
• Natavion Thomas
• Garrett Tramel

Academy Staff – Columbia Police Department Instructors:

• Assistant Chief Paul Dickinson
• Lieutenant Clinton Sinclair
• Sergeant Anthony Bowne
• Lieutenant Mike Hestir (Ret.)
• Sergeant Scott Hedrick (Ret.)
• Sergeant Jeff Rukstad (Ret.)

During the ceremony, Chief Jill Schlude of the Columbia Police Department administered the Welcome and Swearing-In. LULETA Academy Director Gary Hill provided remarks. Lieutenant Scott Alpers of the Columbia Police Department delivered the keynote address.

This graduation represents a new chapter for both LULETA and CPD as they continue working together to train future law enforcement officers dedicated to upholding justice and strengthening community trust.

For more information about the LULETA-CPD partnership, read the LULETA Announcement.

About LULETA:

The Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA) is committed to preparing future law enforcement professionals through a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic instruction with practical training. LULETA focuses on developing officers who are community-oriented, ethically sound, and equipped with the skills needed to serve and protect effectively.

About the Columbia Police Department:

The Columbia Police Department is dedicated to fostering strong community relationships while ensuring the safety and security of Columbia’s residents. Through proactive policing, professional training, and community engagement, CPD works to uphold the highest standards of law enforcement service.