Each graduate completed 868 hours of instruction and earned a certificate that will allow them to work as a sworn law enforcement officer in North Carolina. The class also achieved a 100% pass rate on the state exam required for certification, with all students passing on their first attempt.
Two cadets spoke on behalf of their graduating class during the ceremony.
John Cuccolo reflected on his journey from the beginning of the academy to graduation. “For many years, becoming a police officer was simply a dream. Today, it’s becoming a reality,” he said. “This academy has tested us physically, mentally, and emotionally, but it also strengthened us, humbled us, and prepared us for the responsibilities that lie ahead.”
Fredy Gomez spoke about the class’s determination to lean on one another when they faced challenges, and he encouraged his fellow graduates to build on the character traits they developed in the academy.
“May we show compassion to those who are hurting, courage in the face of danger, and professionalism in every decision we make,” Gomez said. “Our communities will place their trust in us, and it is our responsibility to earn that trust every single day.”
WCC President Patty Pfeiffer said the ceremony was a celebration of the graduates’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment. “You have developed the knowledge and the skills necessary to begin your career in law enforcement. But perhaps more importantly, you have demonstrated the character that this profession demands,” she said.
WCC Vice President of Academic and Student Services Kristie Sauls, who is also the spouse of a law enforcement officer, thanked the cadets’ family members for their support, sacrifices, and encouragement throughout the program. “You may never wear the badge, but you will carry its weight,” she said. “You are joining this profession, too.”
During the ceremony, awards were presented to graduates for their outstanding performance in certain areas.
Matthew Marshall earned the Physical Fitness Award for demonstrating exceptional commitment to fitness throughout the program.
The Top Gun Award was presented to Aiden Hood for excelling in the program’s firearms portion, which required 96 hours of training in accuracy and decision-making skills.
Faith Witherspoon received the Leadership Award. She was recognized as someone who led by example, maintained a positive attitude during difficult circumstances, and earned the respect of classmates and instructors alike.
The Major Jay R. Memmelaar Student Excellence Award was given to Chakib El Laymouny as the student with the highest academic average who has excelled throughout the academy. A check from the George D. Williams Foundation was presented along with the award. Williams was a significant supporter of public safety and law enforcement.
WCC Dean of Public Safety Angie Blizzard commended the cadets for their willingness to be shaped by the demands of the profession since the first day of the academy. “I had the honor of watching you transform,” she said. “I’ve seen you support each other, hold each other accountable, and build the kind of trust that becomes the backbone for a dedicated team.”
The 11 BLET graduates, listed by city of residence, are:
Goldsboro
Roman Makhi Boston
John Raffaele Cuccolo
Bryan Littlewolf Deliz
Dashawn Antwone June
Matthew Richard Marshall
Faith Nicole Witherspoon
Mount Olive
Ronald Brown Beaver
Fredy Alexis Gomez Ramirez
Aiden Tanner Hood
Smithfield
Chakib El Laymouny
Daniel Matthew Ives
BLET is a state-accredited program mandated by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission through the NC Community College System.
WCC’s BLET academy has graduated around 1,300 students who work for approximately 54 different law enforcement agencies on the local, county, and state levels.
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