Brookdale Adjunct Instructor Graduates from FBI National Academy

Brookdale Community College Adjunct Instructor and Law Enforcement Officer of the Rutgers University Police Department Lt. Stephen L. Acquaviva has graduated as a member of the 285th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 16th, 2023. Lt. Acquaviva is the 4th officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, less than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

“Stephen’s remarkable achievement is not just a testament to his talent and hard work, but also to his deep commitment to making a difference,” said Brookdale Community College President Dr. David M. Stout. “By serving as a dedicated educator in our criminal justice program and public servant, he exemplifies the best of what we can achieve when we pursue our passions with purpose and compassion.”

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten 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.

The 285th session consisted of two hundred and forty-seven law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 28 countries, 4 military organizations, and 5 federal civilian organizations. FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at the ceremony.

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 many of the courses offered.

A total of 53,908 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. When asked about his experience during the academy Lt. Acquaviva stated: “This has been the greatest experience in my professional career.”

Lt. Stephen Acquaviva is a proud member of Brookdale’s faculty and said “One of the main reasons why I decided to pursue a second career in academia was so that I would have the opportunity to work with a diverse generation of future criminal justice practitioners and educators in an instructional capacity.  I view teaching and mentoring as central to all of my professional development activities and regularly honestly self-assess my strategic plan. I  have gained a unique perspective from the students and I have learned to be more open-minded and accepting.”

Lt. Acquaviva holds a bachelor’s degree from Monmouth University & master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is a dedicated law enforcement officer with 20 years of service.

To learn more about Brookdale’s Criminal Justice program visit the website here: Criminal Justice