Greg Sanders, Chief Deputy of the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, has graduated as a member of the 288th session of the FBI National Academy. Sanders is one of only a few officers in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program. . Sanders’ graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia this past week on December 7.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the FBI National Academy offers ten 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.
The 288th session consisted of 198 law enforcement officers including men and women from 45 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations, and six federal civilian organizations.
Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey commented, “Congratulations to Chief Deputy Greg Sanders on his graduation from the FBI National Academy and his dedication to this executive level leadership training course. We believe that this intensive training will benefit our community and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office as he transitions into his position as Undersheriff on January 1, 2024.”
Sanders will become Undersheriff, the department’s number two position, when Undersheriff Chuck Heit moves into Bailey’s chair as Berrien County Sheriff. Bailey is retiring after decades in law enforcement.
Greg Sanders received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University. He began his career with the Berrien County Sheriff’s office in January of 1996 as a Deputy in the Jail. He then attended the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Police Academy, graduated in June of 1998 and began his career as a deputy in our Enforcement Division. He has since held many positions and roles over the years, most recently Chief Deputy.
