Alexandra Clayton and Andrew Gioia credit Brookdale for equipping them with the skills and training needed to attain their personal and professional goals. The pair welcomed the opportunity to return to their alma mater in a new role as the latest members of the Brookdale police force.

Alexandra being sworn in.
Alexandra Clayton with her parents, Timothy and Jennifer, at the swearing-in ceremony.

Police work was part of Clayton’s fiber from an early age. Her father is a retired captain with the Wall Township Police Department.

“Ever since I was old enough to understand what my father did for a living, I knew that I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” said Clayton. “He is my biggest influence, and I have always loved the profession.”

“Ever since I was old enough to understand what my father did for a living, I knew that I wanted to follow in his footsteps.”

-Alexandra Clayton

The lifelong Wall Township resident graduated from Wall High School and earned her associate’s in criminal justice from Brookdale in 2015, posting a perfect 4.0 grade point average. She not only excelled in the classroom but played on the softball team which competed in the national tournament both years. She completed her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from New Jersey City University in 2017 and also earned a 4.0 GPA at NJCU. Prior to joining Brookdale’s police force, Clayton served as a dispatcher for the Wall Township Police Department.

“I had an incredible experience here as a student,” said Clayton. “I look forward to being a positive impact on the people I come into contact with, just like how they were for me while I attended Brookdale.”

“It’s a good feeling to come back and be able to protect the place that gave me a great learning and educational experience.”

-Andrew Gioia

Andrew being sworn in.
Andrew Gioia with his parents, Bruce and Donna, at the swearing-in ceremony.

Gioia, an Aberdeen Township resident and Matawan Regional High School graduate, earned his associate’s degree in sociology at Brookdale in 2014. He transferred to John Jay College, earning his bachelor’s degree with a double major in Criminal Justice and Fire Science. He attended Camden County Police Academy and worked as a security officer for JFK Medical Center in Edison prior to joining Brookdale’s police force.

Gioia had an early connection to emergency services, serving as a volunteer with the Aberdeen Fire Department since 2012. He always had an interest in law enforcement as a potential career.

Returning to Brookdale brings back many positive memories for Gioia.

“It’s a good feeling to come back and be able to protect the place that gave me a great learning and educational experience,” said Gioia.