UMW Police Captain Reflects on his Recent Milestone: Graduation From the FBI National Academy

Earlier this year, Police Captain Bill Gill became the first member of the University of Mary Washington Police Department to graduate from the FBI National Academy.

This prestigious 10-week program, held in Quantico, Virginia, provides advanced professional training for select law enforcement managers and officers. Gill completed the program alongside 250 peers, balancing rigorous academic courses, athletic challenges, and weekend excursions with fellow participants. The experience offered valuable insights into law enforcement leadership.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Gill said. “I am forever grateful for the chance to attend the academy.”

Now back on campus, Gill is applying what he learned to enhance safety across the UMW community. He recently reflected on his time at the academy, how he plans to bring those lessons into his work at the University, and his role in UMW’s Homecoming, where he serves as a crucial contributor.

What was your overall experience at the FBI National Academy like?
The academy’s curriculum, offered through the University of Virginia, was certainly challenging, especially since I hadn’t taken a college course in more than 30 years! But I was able to pass all my classes. It also felt similar to attending a traditional college, as we had classes Monday through Friday.

What did you enjoy most about the FBI National Academy? 
I particularly enjoyed the weekend trips our classes took to places like New York City and Philadelphia, where the hospitality was equally amazing. I was also drawn to the academy because of the Yellow Brick Road, a five-mile run through a wooded obstacle course in Quantico, completed toward the end of the program. Lastly, I appreciated being close to home, as it allowed me to see my family every week.

How has graduating from the academy influenced your work as UMW Police Captain?
Attending the academy alongside so many different executives gave me the opportunity to measure myself and my department with others. Law enforcement is constantly evolving, and it’s essential for leaders and departments to stay up to date with the latest developments. While smaller departments like UMW don’t have the same resources as larger ones, the connections I made at the academy mean those resources are now just a phone call away.

How do you view your role for the UMW Homecoming? 
I’ve been working with the Homecoming team since the beginning. My role will be “Incident Commander,” meaning all law enforcement operations will be coordinated through me. I always enjoy Homecoming; it’s a great time for everyone.