Hamilton County, TN – The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the newest graduates of the prestigious Southeastern Leadership Academy (S.E.L.A.) in coordination with the UT Law Enforcement Innovation Center Institute for Public Service which graduated earlier today.

The Southeastern Command and Leadership Academy is a dynamic law enforcement leadership and management program designed for progressive and innovative police managers. The intense five-week course is spread out over a five-month period so that agencies can better manage the time off for their officers and to assist the S.E.L.A. instructors. Sheriff Jim Hammond and Chief Deputy Austin Garrett applaud this year’s graduating deputies who have completed this training while continuing to manage their daily work-related responsibilities.

“As an alumni of this program, I recognize and appreciate the leadership value and management skills this course instills in its graduates. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is committed to seeking the best training possible for the men and women who serve the citizens of Hamilton County. I am proud of each of our deputies for their commitment to this program and for furthering their leadership development,” stated Chief Deputy Austin Garrett.

The S.E.L.A. curriculum was developed by a team of national experts in the field of policing and is delivered by these same experts to ensure integrity of delivery. All instructors are seasoned law enforcement professionals; have earned a Ph. D in Criminal Justice or a related field; teach at a major university; and have published related books or articles in peer-reviewed journals. The curriculum covers current issues and information police administrators rely upon to adequately respond to the diverse demands of an executive position.

On hand for the celebration were members of law enforcement from all over Tennessee, including several Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police. Members of the Honor Guard from the HCSO and Chattanooga Police Department posted the colors at today’s ceremony.

This year’s HCSO graduates were as follows:

Sergeant Matthew Purvis

Sergeant Ron Rice

Please offer your congratulations to these two individuals for their commitment to excellence and for completing this noteworthy program.