Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
In a significant milestone for both the Brownsville Police Department and South Texas College, a new generation of police officers recently graduated as the inaugural cohort from the school’s newly established Training Academy, licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
With a perfect 100% pass rate on their peace officer examinations, the eight recruits who composed STC’s 24th Police Academy were celebrated for successfully completing a rigorous 21-week training program and earning their licenses.
“Today, we celebrate two remarkable achievements: our first graduating class with our TCOLE credentials and our first cohort alongside our partners across the Rio Grande Valley,” said STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D. “As a proud native of Brownsville, I am thrilled by this partnership and deeply impressed by the dedication and hard work of these students. They are stepping into one of the most honorable and essential professions. My sincere congratulations, your efforts are vital for the growth and stability of our region.”
During a memorable ceremony at STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr, Brownsville PD Commander Napoleon Gonzalez welcomed the new officers to the force and encouraged them to pursue ongoing education, emphasizing the importance of becoming the leaders of tomorrow.
“Officers, we live in a society that demands a great deal from police. We are servers, protectors and lifesavers. Not many are willing to enter this profession, so thank you for stepping up,” he said. “We recognize the incredible guidance you’ve received at STC. This education will be crucial for your future success. I challenge you to keep pushing forward, continue learning, pursue higher education and earn that degree. Strive to be the ones who replace us. You are the next generation.”
Among the graduates, 24-year-old Fernando Valdez expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to attend STC and emphasized his desire to give back to his community.
“It’s my city, the place where I grew up. I want to contribute and be a positive influence,” he said. “We’re thankful for the chance to attend STC’s program, especially being from Brownsville. They welcomed us and provided an incredible experience that’s essential for kickstarting our careers.”
He added that some of the highlights of this education journey included the extensive training from knowledgeable instructors and the balance of lectures with hands-on skills.
“All the instructors were outstanding, not just in teaching, but also in offering help when we struggled. Their support was truly a highlight of my time in the academy,” he said.
Since 2012, STC’s Police Academy has graduated hundreds of peace officers who now serve across the RGV and beyond, thanks to its partnership with the city of Pharr and the Pharr Police Department.
Last April, after a lengthy process that required STC to meet rigorous requirements, including demonstrating high standards in instructors, facilities and curriculum, the institution received a Training Academy license from TCOLE.
“With the growth of our region and the increasing demand for police officers, telecommunicators and jailers, we recognized the need to expand STC’s opportunities in law enforcement,” explained STC Dean for Business, Technology and Public Safety Sara Lozano, Ed.D. “Having our own TCOLE license means we are in a position to provide top-notch education.”
With the recent launch of a second Police Academy at STC’s Mid-Valley campus in Weslaco, the college now envisions expanding its reach to Starr County.
“It is a big responsibility we are undertaking, but we have the support and resources to do this and a great team in place to ensure compliance every step of the way,” added Lozano. “To our Brownsville graduates, we hope you come back and continue your education. Know you’ll always have a home at STC.”For more information on STC’s Police Academy or other Public Safety programs and training opportunities offered, visit southtexascollege
