On June 16, Capt. Kaylon McDaniel, training division commander for the Jefferson County sheriff’s office, and Lt. Dennis Kendall, assistant commander of the Criminal Investigation Division, graduated from the Arkansas Leader Session XXXIII. The ceremony was held in Little Rock.
The Arkansas Leader program, jointly sponsored by the Arkansas Criminal Justice Institute and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is one of only 16 Command Colleges in the FBI’s national leadership development portfolio. Through distinguished lecturers and a multifaceted curriculum, participants engage in advanced discussions on leadership principles, critical decision-making strategies and effective mentorship of emerging law enforcement leaders, according to a news release.
“Their successful completion underscores Jefferson County sheriff’s office commitment to investing in its command staff and fostering professional excellence,” according to the release.
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr., himself a graduate of Arkansas Leader Session XX, nominated both McDaniel and Kendall to represent the sheriff’s office at Session XXXIII.
“Continuing education and professional development are fundamental to delivering the highest caliber of public safety services,” said Woods. “By equipping our leaders with cutting-edge leadership skills and decision-making frameworks, we not only strengthen our agency internally but also enhance community trust and safety. I am incredibly proud of Capt. McDaniel and Lt. Kendall for their dedication to growth and for setting the standard for leadership within our ranks.”
The Arkansas Leader program provides executive level training to law enforcement executives and criminal justice leaders from across the state. Designated as one of the FBI’s Command Colleges, it emphasizes contemporary leadership theory, ethical decision making, and mentorship, preparing participants to navigate the complex challenges of modern public safety.