David Tedjeske, Villanova University Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police, recently graduated from the 273rd session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy. Tedjeske spent 10 weeks in Quantico, VA to complete his training.

Participation in the FBI National Academy requires a nomination before an invitation is sent. To be invited to attend this program, one must meet specific criteria. Participants must hold a leadership role in a law enforcement agency, be at least 25 years old, in excellent physical condition, have good character and have a reputation for professionalism. 

Tedjeske was one of 228 men and women who graduated from this program, in which 48 states and 25 countries were represented, making him one of 51,270 graduates of the FBI National Academy since 1935. The program represents less than one percent of the law enforcement population, which makes it a very exclusive and prestigious honor to be invited. 

The FBI National Academy was created to standardize law enforcement departments nationwide. 

While the program is hosted in the United States, many countries such as China, Canada and Great Britain have sent police officers to participate. 

While at the FBI National Academy, participants must enroll in courses in law, behavioral science, forensic science, the terrorist mindset, communication, health and fitness, and leadership development.

 After completing the aforementioned courses, the final test is the physical exam referred to as “The Yellow Brick Road,” a six-point-one-mile course with obstacles throughout, pushing the participants to their physical limits.