W&M Police Chief earns FBI National Academy credential
Latest class William & Mary Police Chief, Donald R. Challis (far right,second to last row), is a member of the 242nd Session of the FBI's National Academy. Photo courtesy of Don Challis
Early class The FBI began its National Academy Program in 1935. This is one of the Program's early classes. A total of 44,015 graduates now represent the FBI National Academy. Photo courtesy of the FBI National Academy
William & Mary Police Chief Donald R. Challis graduated from the FBI National Academy Program in Quantico, Va. in September. The program, which was established by the FBI in 1935, is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders. Challis’ class was the 242nd Session of the Academy and represented 49 states, 26 international countries, five military organizations, four civilian organizations and the District of Columbia.
“The FBI National Academy is an educational experience like no other,” said Challis. “Not only did participants learn from the FBI’s senior instructors we also learned from each other. The exchange of information from both sources will be invaluable. In addition to the formal training the relationships developed over the ten week course has resulted in what I am sure will be lifelong friendships.”
The Academy’s course curriculum consists of advanced investigative, management, and fitness training. To participate in the program a law enforcement official must be nominated. In addition to graduate course credits, Challis also earned the FBI’s Yellow Brick for completion of the Academy’s “Yellow Brick Road” fitness challenge. The test, optional for National Academy Program participants, includes a 6.1 mile run/obstacle course.
Challis noted the resources of the Academy will be of measurable benefit to the university.
“Along with the immediate educational benefits I received at the FBINA I became an automatic member of the FBI National Academy Associates, an organization and a network of law enforcement professionals from around the world. Access to this network will provide access to thousands of law enforcement professionals throughout the world,” he said.
Challis has been the Chief of Police at William & Mary since September 2003. Prior to coming to William & Mary, he served as Director of Public Safety at Northeastern Illinois University and has more than 22 years experience in campus law enforcement. Challis is a past president of the Virginia Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators.
The William & Mary Police Department (WMPD) is a Virginia State certified and accredited police department. In addition to its law enforcement responsibilities the department provides a wide variety of educational programs to enhance the student experience.
