25 in ’25 — Lincoln University Celebrates 11th Graduating Class of Law Enforcement Training Academy

Lincoln University of Missouri graduated eight new officers during the LULETA graduation ceremony on December 13.

Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) is continuing its “25 in ‘25” points of pride to build on last year’s momentum and keep propelling the University to future success.

LU celebrated the accomplishments of the 11th graduating class of the Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA) on Friday, December 13, 2024. The ceremony, held in the Thomas Pawley Theatre on campus, honored the graduates’ dedication and the academy’s mission to build stronger, safer communities.

“Lincoln University is proud to be at the forefront of this essential work,” said President Dr. John Moseley. “The success of LULETA is a testament to our university’s enduring legacy of leadership and service. These graduates represent hope for stronger, safer communities, and we are confident they will carry forward the values of professionalism and compassion instilled through our academy.”

The graduates — Jamilyn Bagby, Braden Bushnell, Katherine Forsythe, Sara Mealy, Harley Murrell, Sydney Phipps, Cameron Webb and Michaela White — marked the culmination of rigorous training and officially entered the law enforcement profession. Learn how LULETA grad Sara Mealy never gave up on her dream: Read her Blue Tiger story.

Chief Gary Hill, director of LULETA, commended the graduates for their perseverance and dedication.

“Each graduate here today is answering a call to serve and protect their communities,” Chief Hill said. “Our mission remains steadfast — to recruit, train and prepare officers who not only enforce the law but are trusted partners within the neighborhoods they serve. This graduating class has worked exceptionally hard, and I have no doubt they will make a meaningful impact in law enforcement across the state and beyond.”

The graduates will now advance into agency-specific field training programs as they begin their roles at law enforcement agencies across Missouri and beyond.

Launched in 2021, LULETA is the first and only police academy housed at a historically Black college or university (HBCU). Recognized nationally for its commitment to increasing diversity and strengthening community-oriented policing, the academy continues to train officers equipped with professionalism, empathy and integrity.

Looking ahead, the academy will celebrate its 12th graduating class in spring 2025. As part of its ongoing evolution, LULETA has partnered with the Columbia Police Department (Columbia, Missouri) to deliver specialized, community-focused training for recruits. This 19-week program emphasizes scenario-based exercises to balance law enforcement duties with community engagement, mental health awareness, crisis intervention and interpersonal skills. 

Recruits will undergo physical training, firearms instruction and emergency driving courses, with 90% of the program’s infrastructure and most trainers provided by the Columbia Police Department. This collaboration not only enhances officer preparedness but also aligns with Lincoln University’s mission to foster meaningful connections between law enforcement and the communities they serve. 

Stay tuned for the rest of the month with more of Lincoln’s 25 in ‘25.