(STURGIS) – A member of the Sturgis Police Department is a recent graduate of the 276th session of the FBI National Academy Program.

Deputy Police Chief Ryan Banaszak was one of 256 law enforcement officers that graduated from the ten week course. It included advanced communication, leadership and fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive level positions.

Training for the program is provided by the FBI Academy instructional staff, Special Agents, and other staff members holding advanced degrees. Many of them are recognized internationally in their fields of expertise.

Banaszak says he is extremely grateful for the opportunity to attend this session. He says learning from the best instructors in law enforcement leadership in the country and networking with law enforcement executives from around the world was an opportunity of a life time.

Banaszak says he owes a large thanks to the Officers and Support Staff of the Sturgis Police Department who picked up added responsibilities in his absence. He also wants to thank the City of Sturgis Staff and Commissioners for allowing him this opportunity.

This session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 49 states. Included in the classes were law enforcement officers from the District of Columbia; 35 international countries, five military organizations ans even federal civilian organizations.