Goldsboro, N.C. – Wayne Community College (WCC) marked a significant milestone as it graduated the 86th class of its Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) academy, recognizing 14 cadets who have completed the rigorous program and are now eligible to serve as sworn law enforcement officers in North Carolina.
Each graduate completed 648 hours of instruction and passed the state certification exam with a 100% success rate, a testament to their dedication and preparation.
During the graduation ceremony, WCC President Dr. Patty Pfeiffer praised the graduates for their determination and readiness to enter the field of public service. “The difference you will make in the lives of others cannot be overstated,” Pfeiffer said. “We are incredibly proud of all that you have achieved and look forward to the positive impact you will make in the world of law enforcement.”
WCC Vice President of Academic and Student Services Brandon Jenkins also addressed the class, commending their perseverance. “These young men and women… have chosen a profession that is noble beyond words, and they’ve chosen the path that is not always the easiest,” he said.
Cadets Isabelle Hernandez and Devontay Richardson delivered heartfelt remarks on behalf of their classmates. Hernandez spoke about the unity and shared purpose that developed among the cadets: “Let us never forget the real reason we have decided to take this task upon us and serve our community.” Richardson reflected on the personal and collective growth that occurred through their training: “That taught me the power of teamwork and the importance of not giving up on each other.”
Several cadets were recognized for outstanding achievement:
- Dexter Howell received the Physical Fitness Award for the highest overall fitness performance.
- Nathan Jensen earned the Top Gun Award for excellence in firearms training.
- Samuel Ford was honored with the Leadership Award for consistently demonstrating strong leadership qualities.
- Taylor Bowen was awarded the Major Jay R. Memmelaar Student Excellence Award and a check from the George D. Williams Foundation for achieving the highest academic average.
WCC Dean of Public Safety Angie Blizzard addressed the graduates with words of encouragement and a reminder of the responsibility that comes with their new roles. “No matter what your reason was for starting this journey, you started it as individuals, but now you leave as one team,” she said. “The badge is not the end goal; it is the beginning of a promise.”
The graduates of the 86th BLET class, listed by city of residence, are:
- Deep Run: Joseluis Perry Leon
- Dudley: Samuel Matthew Ford
- Goldsboro: Carly Michelle Boyette, Dexter Lanier Howell, Nathan Charles Jensen, Julian Lamont Lucas, William Lamar Ohnmeiss, Devontay Shaquan Richardson, Ean Cecil Wade
- Greenville: Isabelle Marie Hernandez
- Hookerton: Taylor Nicole Bowen
- La Grange: Sergio Chavez-Garcia
- Seven Springs: William Lassiter McCollum
- Willow Spring: David Allen Meyrick
WCC’s BLET program is accredited by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission. Since its inception, the academy has graduated approximately 1,300 students, many of whom now serve across more than 50 law enforcement agencies throughout the state.
