Law Enforcement Leadership Program Shapes Tomorrow's Leaders

Taylor Soanes, an active member of Seton Hall's Softball team, continued her education by pursuing the M.A. in Law Enforcement Executive Leadership program.

The Master of Arts in Law Enforcement Executive Leadership (LEEL) program, offered through the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, combines a challenging curriculum with the flexibility of online learning - making it ideal for students like Taylor Soanes, who was seeking a graduate program that could mesh with her busy schedule as a student-athlete.

Soanes, originally from Missouri City, Texas, and born in London, England, gives a unique perspective into how the LEEL program is shaping her future plans. Having graduated from Seton Hall in 2023 with a B.A. in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology, she found the LEEL program to be a seamless transition into advanced education.

"What interested me the most about the program was the leadership aspect. I was a part of the student-athlete leadership program while an undergrad and wanted to take it a step further when entering the professional world," said Soanes, who was an active member of Seton Hall's Softball team and named to the BIG EAST All-Academic Team four times.

Choosing to stay at Seton Hall for her graduate studies was influenced not only by her being on the softball team, but also by her appreciation of Seton Hall's small class sizes and the personal interactions. The master's program can be completed over 30 credit hours and within six semesters. Students may attend online classes in real-time, or watch recorded classes at a time that works best for them.

The online nature of the LEEL program was also a crucial factor, allowing her the flexibility to balance her academic pursuits with the demanding schedule of a student-athlete. "What I liked most about the LEEL program is that it is entirely online and has a manageable workload," said Soanes. This flexibility is pivotal for her, especially with frequent travels during the season. She added, "With the courses being held over Teams, I have attended almost every class and engaged with my classmates."

Soanes also appreciated the exposure to a diverse network. "My classmates' experiences within their professions has given me great insight into many fields that interest me," she said, comparing the collaborative environment of the LEEL program to an internship, offering real-world insights and professional interactions that are invaluable for her career preparation.

Taught by experienced and knowledgeable professors, the curriculum enables students to acquire the necessary skills and tools to analyze complex public sector challenges and manage the day-to day operations of public agencies.

Soanes speaks highly of professors like Kishon C. Hickman, Sr., Ed.D. and Leonard Moscatelli, Ed.D., who gave her an understanding of the field through their expertise and supportive teaching methods. "They provided me with the foundation of knowledge and understanding needed to excel in this field of work."

With graduation on the horizon, Soanes said, "After completing this program, I plan to move back to Texas and apply for as many jobs as possible." she shared. Her interest in possibly joining the FBI shows how well the LEEL program has prepared her for a career in law enforcement.

"I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to further their education or rank in criminal justice," said Soanes. "Not only does this program create great conversation, but it also creates a space where students can learn from each other's agencies."

Students accepted into this program receive a generous discount off the graduate tuition rate. The University offers graduate scholarship opportunities, including the Dr. Stephen and Beverly Hoptay Fellowship for New Jersey State Troopers. Learn more about the program.

Categories: Education

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.