HCSO Graduates Two Personnel from the Prestigious Southeastern Leadership Academy (SELA)

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 Austin Garrett applauds 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 Training Sergeant Jeremy Durham and Patrol Sergeant Todd Cook for their commitment to this program and for furthering their leadership development,” stated Sheriff 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.

This year’s keynote speaker was Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett who spoke on the three tenants of his personal leadership philosophy.

On hand for the celebration were several members of the HCSO Administration and law enforcement personnel from across Tennessee.

The Honor Guard responsible for posting the colors at today’s event was comprised of both HCSO and Chattanooga Police Department Honor Guard personnel.

This year’s HCSO graduates were as follows:

Training Sergeant Jeremy Durham

Patrol Sergeant Todd Cook

Please offer your congratulations to these two individuals for their commitment to excellence and for completing

this noteworthy program.