University of Alabama Police Department Chief Scott Thurmond is among 255 law enforcement officers who recently graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, marking a significant professional achievement and reflecting UAPD’s commitment to leadership and excellence in public safety.
Thurmond completed the 298th session of the prestigious academy, which brought together law enforcement leaders from 46 states, the District of Columbia, and more than two dozen countries. The class also included representatives from military organizations and federal civilian agencies, providing a diverse environment for learning and collaboration.
For Thurmond, the experience represents both a personal milestone and an opportunity to bring new insights and strategies back to Tuscaloosa.
“As law enforcement continues to evolve, it’s critical that we remain focused on strong leadership, effective communication and community engagement,” Thurmond said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside peers from across the country and around the world, and I look forward to applying what I’ve gained to further enhance safety and service at UAPD.”
“Chief Thurmond’s graduation from the FBI National Academy reflects his dedication to professional growth and to leading UAPD at the highest level,” said Dr. Dan Layzell, UA Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer. “The knowledge and relationships gained through this experience will benefit not only the department but the entire campus community.”
Internationally recognized for its academic rigor, the FBI National Academy offers an intensive 10-week program focused on advanced communication, leadership, and physical fitness. The academy selects participants based on their demonstrated professionalism and leadership within their agencies. On average, attendees bring more than two decades of law enforcement experience to the program and often return to serve in executive-level roles.
The FBI National Academy, established in 1935, has graduated more than 57,000 law enforcement professionals from around the world. The program is conducted at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia, the same facility where new FBI special agents and intelligence analysts are trained.
Other academy graduates serving in public safety at The University of Alabama include Deputy Police Chief Micah Rodgers, Captain Chad Stephens, Director of Emergency Management Donald Keith, Security Resources Operations Manager Mike Lee and Vice Chancellor for Security Operations Steven Anderson.
Thurmond’s completion of the program underscores UAPD’s ongoing commitment to professional development and its mission to provide a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors at The University of Alabama.