Police Major Selected for Prestigious Leadership Training Program

Published on July 14, 2026

Police Major Selected for Prestigious Leadership Training Program

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 14, 2026) — Major Michael Oswald of the West Palm Beach Police Department has been selected to attend Cohort 7 of the University of Chicago Crime Lab's Policing Leadership Academy, which begins in mid-July 2026.

The nationally recognized program provides executive-level leadership and management training for police commanders responsible for overseeing precincts, districts, and specialized units. The five-month academy is designed to strengthen leadership, reduce violent crime, improve organizational effectiveness, and enhance community trust through evidence-based policing strategies.

"Over the past 18 months, our department has taken a deliberate approach to expanding leadership development at every level of the organization," said West Palm Beach Police Department Deputy Chief Anthony Shearer. "Investing in our people is one of our highest priorities, and by preparing today's supervisors for the challenges of 21st-century policing, we are strengthening our organization and the service we provide to our community."

Participants travel to Chicago for one week each month to complete coursework led by policing experts in strategic leadership, data-driven management, violence reduction and organizational leadership. The program concludes with a capstone project that allows participants to apply lessons learned to address a significant public safety challenge within their home agency.

Major Oswald's selection reflects the West Palm Beach Police Department's continued investment in developing leaders and implementing innovative, research-based policing practices that enhance public safety and improve service to the community.

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Rachel Leitão

Public Information Officer

pdpio@wpb.org