Lincoln University of Missouri Graduates Eight New Law Enforcement Officers

Lincoln University's December 2023 LULETA Graduates

Lincoln University graduated eight new law enforcement professionals at a commencement ceremony Dec. 15 in Pawley Theater on the LU campus. The newly minted officers make up the eighth class to complete the program of LU’s Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA). Lincoln launched its training center in 2021, the first historically Black college and university to house its own police academy. 

“A career in law enforcement is a sacrifice, so please know, your role doesn’t go unnoticed,” says Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley. “In life, there are moments where we can look back and see a very clear beginning and an end. This is one of those moments as you transition from life as a civilian and begin a career as a law enforcement professional.”

The new graduates are Trevor Phillip Bailey, Edmund Lee Coley, Reginald Joshiah Lee Dixon, Michael Anthony Hanafusa, Christian Flenor Harvey Kennedy, Ashlyn Rose Kroll, Bradley Lynn MacLaughlin, and Clayton Samuel Wolfe.

“Our communities need us just as much as we need them, especially in these hard times,” says Lincoln University Chief of Police Gary L. Hill. “My motivation for my 28 years in law enforcement is this: no matter how hard things can be, no matter how stressful this job is, I can’t quit, because somebody out there needs me — and now they really need you. That is my motivation. That is my level of dedication to this profession, and I want you all to have the same.”

In the program, cadets receive hands-on, practical training in a variety of situations, including domestic violence calls, traffic stops, burglary scenarios, crisis intervention, and de-escalation techniques.

“In your profession, every decision is significant, so please remember the importance of empathy and understanding,” says President Moseley. “You’re not only out there to safeguard a community, but you’re also there to build a bridge. Build it by creating trust through meaningful engagement, empathetic listening, and genuine commitment to making a positive difference in every interaction when you can.”

For more information, visit Lincoln University's Police Academy Website.

Photos from the event are available to view, share or download on Lincoln’s Flickr page.