Education

I am a 1998 graduate of Southern Door High School. Following high school, I attended Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay, where I earned an Associate Degree in Police Science. Later in my career, I continued my education at Columbia Southern University, obtaining both a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. I am currently attending the University of Wisconsin Law Enforcement Command College, a six-week graduate-level program designed for senior law enforcement administrators that leads to certification as a Certified Public Manager.

During my graduate studies, I concentrated on organizational leadership and public-sector budgeting, with a strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility, accountability, and effective management. This academic focus has directly influenced my approach to leadership, resource allocation, and long-term organizational planning.

Throughout my career, I have been afforded numerous opportunities for professional development and specialized training. These include First Line Supervision, Leadership in Police Organizations, Breachpoint Leadership, Investigating Use of Force Incidents, FBI Law Enforcement Executive Leadership Development, Wisconsin Certified Use of Force Instructor, Wisconsin Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Investigator, Human Trafficking Investigator, Death Investigation Investigator, and Response Strategies for Missing and Endangered Persons.

I believe education is the foundation of effective law enforcement and organizational success. Without a strong foundation, any structure—whether a building or an agency—will fail. An educated workforce communicates more effectively, applies critical thinking to complex situations, makes sound decisions, and produces fair, consistent outcomes. These qualities reduce citizen complaints, limit organizational liability, and strengthen public trust.

As Sheriff, my intent is to recruit, hire, and retain highly qualified and well-educated professionals to preserve and strengthen the foundation of the Door County Sheriff’s Office. A commitment to education and continuous improvement is essential to delivering professional, accountable, and community-focused policing.