Upper St. Clair Police Lieutenant Michael Ventura was one of 238 law enforcement officers to graduate from the 286^th session of the FBI National Academy (FBINA) on Thursday, June 8. The FBINA is recognized internationally for its academic excellence and training, which focuses on advanced communication, leadership and fitness. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Graduates from this year’s class represented law enforcement agencies from 25 countries, five military organizations and six federal civilian organizations.

“It was an honor to have the opportunity to represent Upper St. Clair at the FBI National Academy,” said Lt. Ventura. “I am forever grateful to my family and my fellow officers for supporting me throughout the journey. This incredible and rewarding experience allowed me to learn and grow alongside the finest law enforcement officers from around the world. I am excited to be able to share the knowledge, skills and partnerships that I was able to build over the past 10 weeks with our police department and our community."

Lt. Ventura is now the fourth active member of the USC Police Department to graduate from the FBINA, along with Chief of Police Jonathan Wharton, Lieutenant Michael Lindenfelser and Sargeant James Murphy. In total, 12 members of the USC Police Department have graduated from the FBINA.

“The Upper St Clair Police Department prides itself with higher levels of professionalism, which starts with training and education,” said Chief Wharton. “Over the years, there have been several high-ranking Upper St Clair officers, most of them now retired, who completed this unique leadership training. Prior to Lieutenant Ventura graduating, there were three National Academy graduates still employed with our department. The education that Lieutenant Ventura attained will afford him the ability to excel as a leader in our community.”

“It was both an honor and a privilege to attend Lt. Ventura's graduation from the 286^th session of FBI National Academy,” said Lt. Lindenfelser. “The hard work and dedication that he has displayed over the past 10 weeks is admirable.  The lessons that he has learned and the friendships that he has gained will serve him well for the rest of his law enforcement career.”

As an FBI National Academy graduate, Lt. Ventura enters a select group made up of less than one percent of the country’s law enforcement officers. The 10-week course includes instruction in law, behavioral science, forensic science, understanding terrorism/terrorist mindsets, leadership development, communication and health/fitness.

Those invited to the academy must have a proven track record of professional accomplishments, and enrollment to the academy is limited. Law enforcement officials from across the world must first apply and include an endorsement by their Chief of Police just to be considered. Admission is by invitation only.

Graduates from the prestigious program have come from all 50 states, 194 countries and over 8,200 law enforcement agencies. Over 53,000 graduates have completed the FBINA Program.