天涯社区log

Eight students have graduated from the inaugural class of 天涯社区log’s Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC) and have already joined local law enforcement agencies.

A ceremony was held on July 26 to recognize this milestone, marking the culmination of three years of preparation to address the regional need for local officer training.

The graduates, certified by the Department of Public Safety’s Peace Officer Standards and Training Program (POST) and having passed the Missouri Peace Officer License Exam, received badges from their hiring agencies during the ceremony. The graduates and their respective agencies are:

• Aesa Al-Jurany, Rolla 鈥� Crawford County Sheriff鈥檚 Department
• Luke Carnahan, Crocker 鈥� Waynesville Police Department
• Michael Davis, Rolla 鈥� Phelps County Sheriff鈥檚 Department
• James Henson, Rolla 鈥� Rolla Police Department
• Alexander Krakuszeski, Rolla 鈥� Rolla Police Department
• Hunter Solomon, Waynseville 鈥� Phelps County Sheriff鈥檚 Department
• Stanley Taylor, Jr., Licking 鈥� Phelps County Sheriff鈥檚 Department
• Jay Yelton, Rolla 鈥� Phelps County Sheriff鈥檚 Department

Since August 2023, the graduates have worked toward a Certificate of Achievement in Law Enforcement from 天涯社区log and have the option to complete additional general education requirements to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Law Enforcement.

天涯社区log Rolla Director and LETC Director, Christina Ayres, applauded the graduates.

鈥淚 commend you for the dedication and perseverance you have shown to your educational journey. We鈥檝e seen your grit, resilience, hope, and gratitude,鈥� she said. 鈥淢y wish for each of you is that you wear your well-earned badge with honor and commitment to the department and communities that you serve.鈥�

Meeting Our Mission

天涯社区log President Dr. Jon Bauer emphasized the LETC as a prime example of the college鈥檚 mission to meet community needs.

鈥淭he LETC at 天涯社区log is the perfect illustration of that mission. Law enforcement officials came to the College with a critical need 鈥� there were no good options for individuals to train for a career in law enforcement in this region,鈥� he said.

鈥淭heir question was at once simple and profound: Could 天涯社区log help? Consistent with our mission to serve our communities and our strategic priority of expanding in Rolla, the answer was an easy and enthusiastic, Yes!鈥�

The LETC was established through the efforts of Phelps County Sheriff Michael Kirn, Rolla Police Maj. William Loughridge, and Ayres.

Since August 2021, they have worked to address barriers for employers and future officers by reducing travel and lodging costs and decreasing lengthy commutes, allowing students to attend training while maintaining their current responsibilities.

The program also ensures that quality candidates familiar with the community are trained locally, fostering greater interest and retention. LETC students benefit from federal financial aid, scholarships, and support services, and the program exceeds state requirements by offering more training hours.

Student Awards

LETC graduate Alexander Krakuszeski received the 2023-2024 Outstanding Law Enforcement Student Award for his professionalism, positive attitude, work ethic, and teamwork.

A faculty member noted, 鈥淭hroughout the entire academy training, he consistently stepped up into a mentor role, he encouraged teamwork from all recruits, and whenever he noticed someone struggling with PT or one of the other core classes or assignments, he always stepped up. He showed true professionalism, he led by example, he offered encouragement, support, and he demonstrated to his classmates how to be more successful.鈥�

Additionally, Krakuszeski was presented with the Marksmanship Excellence Award and Academic Excellence Award. Luke Carnahan received the Physical Fitness Excellence Award, and Hunter Solomon and Stanley Taylor, Jr. were recognized for perfect attendance.

For more information about the program, visit our Law Enforcement program page, or contact LETC@eastcentral.edu or 573-202-6960.