CSU’s Captain Joseph Hunt Selected to Attend FBI National Academy
Cleveland State University Police Capt. Joseph Hunt has been selected to attend the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
The program begins July 8 and lasts about 10 weeks.
“It’s truly an honor,” said Hunt. “Acceptance into the FBI National Academy is highly competitive, with less than 1% of law enforcement officers worldwide selected to attend. I’m proud to represent our university.”
Widely regarded as one of the premier leadership and professional development programs for law enforcement executives, the academy brings together officers from across the United States and around the world for an intensive training experience. Participants receive advanced instruction in leadership, communication, behavioral science, law, fitness and other critical areas while building relationships with fellow law enforcement professionals from diverse agencies and backgrounds.
“I’m looking forward to learning from both the instructors and the other law enforcement professionals attending from across the country and around the world,” said Hunt. “The opportunity to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices is something that can have a real impact back at the university.”
Capt. Hunt first applied to the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy three years ago. The FBI oversees a competitive selection process that evaluates applicants based on leadership experience, professional accomplishments, service records and overall qualifications.
Candidates are chosen from a highly qualified pool of law enforcement professionals from across the country.
Attendance at the FBI National Academy is considered a significant professional achievement in law enforcement. The program accepts a limited number of participants, typically selecting current agency leaders who have demonstrated professionalism, strong leadership skills and a commitment to public service.
“I believe it will help by expanding my perspective and giving me additional tools to better serve both my department and the University community,” said Hunt. “The training, leadership experience, and professional network that come from the FBI National Academy will help me continue developing as a leader and allow me to bring back new ideas and strategies that benefit our department and the University we serve.”
CSU Police Chief Beverly Pettrey said the opportunity marks a significant professional achievement for Capt. Hunt and reflects years of dedication to his law enforcement career.
“The academy will provide him with executive-level leadership training, exposure to best practices in policing, and the opportunity to build relationships with law enforcement leaders from across the country,” she said. “It will help prepare him for the next step in his career while also bringing valuable knowledge and experience back to the CSU Police Department.”
Pettrey said Capt. Hunt’s selection reflects the professionalism and high standards of the Cleveland State University Police Department. The department is accredited by both CALEA and the Ohio Collaborative, signifying that its policies, training and operations meet nationally recognized best practices in law enforcement.
“CSU Police emphasizes training, leadership development, accountability and professionalism, an environment in which Hunt has developed over the years and which helped prepare him for this opportunity,” she said.
This marks the second time in recent years that a CSU Police leader has been selected for the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. Capt. Scott Secor attended in 2022 following the same competitive selection process.
“I’m extremely appreciative of this opportunity and the support I’ve received from my department and the University community,” said Hunt. “I’ve had many members of the University stop to congratulate me, and I’m proud and thankful for that encouragement and support.”
He added:
“I would also be remiss if I did not thank my lovely wife, Michelle, who will be at home with our three young boys during the ten weeks I am away. Her support makes this opportunity possible, and I’m incredibly grateful for her and my family.”