06/22/2026
QUANTICO, VA - 255 law enforcement officers, including our own Chief Don Shepard graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on June 18, 2026. He was proudly accompanied by his own family, along with Major Aly Abdelgawad - Deputy Chief of the Belton Missouri Police Department, who was a graduate of the 262nd session of the FBINA.
The 298th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 46 states and the District of Columbia. The class also included 29 international members of law enforcement agencies from 26 countries, five military organizations, and four federal civilian organizations. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious professional development programs in law enforcement, fewer than one percent of all law enforcement officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
FBI Director Kash Patel delivered remarks at the ceremony. Class spokesperson Charles Chapeau from the Georgia State Patrol, Atlanta, GA, represented the graduating officers.
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered.
A total of 57,196 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
