What brought you to LCA, and how many years did you attend?
After visiting several schools, my family and I felt that LCA’s academic excellence and sense of community would best support my academic development and personal growth. I joined the LCA community in the eighth grade and learned invaluable life lessons until I graduated five years later. My experience at LCA shaped my worldview and gave me a solid foundation to pursue my professional and academic goals. The leadership skills I developed there continue to guide me in my personal and professional life today.
How has your experience at LCA shaped who you are today?
My time at LCA profoundly influenced the person I am today, both personally and professionally. Academically, LCA instilled in me the value of perseverance, dedication, and striving for excellence. However, it wasn’t just about grades or achievements; it was about cultivating a growth mindset and approaching every task with humility and respect for others. LCA emphasized the importance of service to others, which sparked my interest in public service and solidified my commitment to making a positive impact. The leadership service and integrity principles that I learned at LCA continue to shape my approach to complex challenges.
Which faculty members or coaches impacted you the most while here?
Several faculty members and coaches played a significant role in shaping my development throughout my time at LCA. One individual who had a lasting impact on me was my music teacher, Mr. James Bergin. He challenged us to think critically about music and encouraged us to explore our creativity and step outside our comfort zones. His mentorship helped me grow as a person and student, teaching me the value of pushing boundaries and embracing new ideas. I am also grateful for Coach Josh McPherson, who taught me the importance of hard work, teamwork, and resilience. Under his guidance, I learned that success isn’t just about winning; it’s about consistently giving your best and supporting those around you, no matter the outcome. Both of these individuals made a lasting impact on my life, and the lessons I learned from them continue to serve me as I navigate complex and dynamic professional challenges.
What activities, clubs, sports etc. were you involved in while a student?
During my time at LCA, I was fortunate to be involved in a variety of extracurricular activities that enriched my experience. I participated in several sports, including cross-country, basketball, and baseball. Being part of these teams taught me valuable lessons in determination, teamwork, and time management. Balancing sports with academics was challenging, but it helped me develop a strong work ethic and the ability to prioritize effectively. These activities shaped my personal development and laid the foundation for the skills I rely on in my career today.
How has your faith impacted your life and career after graduating LCA?
Faith has been an important part of my life, and it continues to influence how I approach both my personal and professional challenges. Faith has also provided me with a sense of purpose, reminding me that my work isn’t just about professional achievements but about making a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether I’m facing tough decisions, managing a team, or serving the community, my faith is a constant source of direction. It has helped me maintain perspective in difficult times.
What college did you attend and what inspired you to choose your major?
After graduating from LCA, I attended Western New England University to pursue a degree in criminal justice. After I obtained my Bachelor’s degree, I decided to pursue a law degree, deepening my knowledge of the criminal justice system and its role in society. Over the past five years, I have been involved in research that explores how implicit bias impacts police officer decision-making. This interest led me to pursue a Doctor of Education degree, where I could further study the intersection of implicit bias and policing, hoping to contribute to positive change within the law enforcement community.
Tell us about what you currently do for work and the road to your current career.
Currently, I serve as the Chief of Police for the Boston University Police Department, overseeing the department’s administrative and operational functions. My role involves working closely with various internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, and local law enforcement, to ensure a safe and supportive campus environment for faculty, students, staff, and visitors. Prior to joining Boston University, I spent over two decades with the Cambridge, MA Police Department, where I held a variety of leadership positions. Those years were instrumental in shaping my leadership style and providing me with the experience necessary to lead a police department. The road to my current career was not always linear, but each role and responsibility I took on helped prepare me for the challenges I now face as Chief of Police.
If you could offer just one piece of career advice to today’s students or something that you wish you had known before graduating, what would it be?
One piece of advice I would offer to today’s students is to start building your professional network as early as possible. Networking isn’t just about finding a job or making connections—it’s about forming genuine relationships with people who share your professional interests and goals. Throughout my career, I’ve found that people are often generous with their time and willing to help those who show a true interest in learning and growing. Whether through internships, professional organizations, or simply reaching out to others who share your professional interests, building a strong network early on can open doors and provide you with invaluable guidance.
In what ways have you been connected to or involved in the school since graduating?
Since graduating from LCA, I’ve stayed connected to the school and its community. I regularly keep in touch with friends and faculty members who were a big part of my experience. Recently, I had the privilege of participating in an Alumni Career event, where I shared my journey with current students and their families. It was incredibly rewarding to give back to the community that helped shape me and to offer guidance to emerging leaders navigating their paths.
What is your favorite part of your job and what would you say are the top requirements (skills, mind-set, etc.) for someone entering this line of work?
Policing is a noble profession, and one of the aspects I find most rewarding is the opportunity to collaborate with the community to find innovative strategies for addressing public safety concerns. I am particularly proud of the efforts I led to convert a high school into an emergency temporary shelter for unhoused individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. That experience highlighted the power of innovation and community collaboration in the face of a crisis. Policing is demanding, requiring officers to handle dynamic situations with professionalism. The top skills needed to succeed in this field include adaptability, a growth mindset, and the ability to serve with compassion. Effective police officers must be able to think quickly, act decisively, and remain empathetic to the diverse needs of the communities they serve. A commitment to continuous learning and development is also essential in this ever-evolving field.
What are you most grateful for from your time at LCA? Do you have a favorite LCA memory or favorite spot on campus?
I am most grateful for the strong sense of community and the support I received from faculty and coaches during my time at LCA. The relationships I developed there continue to influence my life in meaningful ways. One of my favorite LCA memories is my senior year basketball season. Our team demonstrated teamwork and collaboration. The lessons I learned through winning games, losing games, and late-night practices allowed me to further develop life skills that remain relevant today.
Are there any reflections you would like to add?
LCA’s academics and community-focused environment have significantly impacted my professional and academic career. I am so grateful to the faculty who invested in me inside the classroom. I am equally grateful for the faculty and coaches who supported me outside the classroom. I hope my professional and academic accomplishments reflect the time, energy, and effort invested in me. Thank you to the LCA for a great experience, and I look forward to staying connected to our community.
