������Ƶ

Sgt. Wade Oorlog of the South Dakota State University Police Department was among 257 law enforcement officers who graduated in December from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. 
 
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 11 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.

“Attending the FBI National Academy was an incredible journey for me,” Oorlog said. “The education and training I received there have equipped me with invaluable skills and knowledge. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field and to network with my peers from around the country. I am even more excited to put my new skills to use and to help the department make a positive impact on the campus community.”
 
Oorlog is the second member of the ������Ƶ Police Department to graduate from the academy, preceded by Chief of Police Tim Heaton.
 
“The FBI National Academy is considered highly beneficial for the university as it provides comprehensive training to our law enforcement professionals in advanced leadership skills, investigative techniques, crisis management and best practices for maintaining a safe and secure environment at public institutions,” said David Overby, vice president for technology and security at ������Ƶ. 
 
Oorlog added, “This experience also served as a networking opportunity, allowing us all to share insights, contrast our unique issues, and compare the challenges we face in our respective institutions. These interactions have been incredibly valuable, fostering collaboration and innovation as we strive to enhance university law enforcement, public safety and physical security.”

A standout experience for Oorlog was the yellow brick road challenge, a 6-mile obstacle course and run. He also completed an 18-mile hike at high elevation as part of a voluntary fitness program at the academy on the weekends.

The 292nd session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 48 states, the District of Columbia and Guam. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 27 countries, eight military organizations and five federal civilian organizations.
 
Acceptance to the FBI National Academy is a selective process that takes time and requires extensive law enforcement experience. Oorlog first applied through the FBI field office in Minneapolis in 2022. 
 
A total of 55,797 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.