Events
Wake Tech Holds Graduation for Law Enforcement Training Academy
RALEIGH, N.C. (December 12, 2013) - Twenty-two students graduated Thursday, December 12 from the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Academy at Wake Tech Community College. The graduation ceremony was held at Wake Tech’s Public Safety Education Campus.
The rigorous BLET program includes 744 hours of training, with dozens of instructors and more than 40 exams. Trainees also have to pass the Police Officers Physical Ability Test (POPAT), which requires completion of an intense, timed series of search-and-rescue, physical agility, and mental alertness exercises.
The Honorable Keith Gregory, Wake County District Court Judge, gave the commencement address. He commended the graduates and spoke about the importance of reputation. “Upholding the law is a team effort,” Judge Gregory said, “and trust is very important. Be truthful and hold your head high, no matter the situation.”
Class president Jeffrey Rhoads paid tribute to his fellow trainees by recapping memorable and humorous moments from class and encouraged all to “be the best you can be in the trade.”
Graduates receiving awards were as follows:
- Award of Excellence for Highest Academic Average: Derek T. Williams
- Award of Excellence for Highest Firearms Average: William F. Hughes and Jeffrey T. Rhoads (tie)
- Award of Excellence for Most Physically Fit: Evan M. Drinkwater
- Monique Mitchell Memorial Scholarship Award Recipient: Jeffrey T. Rhoads
This scholarship was established in memory of the daughter of Wake Tech Executive Vice President Gerald Mitchell. It assists BLET cadets who demonstrate discipline, integrity, and leadership qualities; they must be 25 or older, in good academic standing with at least a 90% GPA, and on track to graduate.
Wake Tech Dean of Public Safety Angela Mizelle gave a final word of encouragement about leadership. “Look for ways to make a difference in your communities,” she said. “You have a lot of influence, so do well by doing what’s right.”
To learn more about Wake Tech’s BLET program, visit publicsafety.waketech.edu or call 919-866-6104.
