Dingfelder graduates from FBI National Academy Program

George A. Dingfelder was one of two hundred and fifty-six law enforcement officers who graduated on June 7 from the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, Virginia. The 276th Session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 49 states. Included in the class are members of law enforcement agencies from the District of Columbia, 35 international countries, five military organizations and seven federal civilian organizations. Dingfelder is currently employed as a Major with the Colorado State Patrol, serving Southwest Colorado.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy Program, held at the FBI Academy, offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, these officers have 21 years oflaw enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

Attorney General William Pelham Barr was the principal speaker at the ceremony.

Training for the program is provided by the FBI Academy instructional staff, Special Agents, and other staff members holding advanced degrees, many of whom are recognized internationally in their fields of expertise.

Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia due to the accreditation by the university of the many courses offered.

The graduating officers were represented by the class spokesperson, Brian J. Issitt, Phoenix Police Department, Phoenix, Arizona. A total of 52,026 graduates now represent the alumni of the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.

Dingfelder is a 1988 graduate of Carter County High School. His parents are Joby and Jeannie Padden of Camp Crook. He currently resides in Alamosa, Colorado with his wife, Stephanie. He has been employed with the Colorado State Patrol since January, 1995.