Southeast Missouri State University is celebrating University Police Academy (UPA) graduates during a ceremony in Dempster Hall on Thursday, December 11 at 6 p.m.
Twenty-six graduates are crossing the stage, and 25 of them will step directly into roles across eight counties throughout southeast Missouri. Students enrolled in SEMO’s UPA can complete the academy either as part of a bachelor’s degree or as a stand-alone certificate.
“The Police Academy students leave the Academy not just with knowledge and skills, but with purpose,” said Dane Stausing, director of SEMO’s Police Academy. “They have courage, integrity and a commitment to serve others and their communities. It’s a great feeling to see how the officers are setting examples for recruits who will also be protecting southeast Missouri in the future.”
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The cohort continued the Academy’s remarkable track record, marking the seventh consecutive year of a 100% pass rate on the Missouri P.O.S.T. exam. The achievement highlights the strength of the UPA’s intensive 19-week program, which blends hands-on skills training with classroom instruction designed to prepare recruits for the realities of modern policing. The Academy’s consistent performance has made its graduates highly sought after by departments across the region.
SEMO’s UPA remains committed to preparing capable, community-minded officers who are ready to make a difference. Students interested in joining the spring 2026 cohort must apply by December 19, 2025.
Fearlessly serve and protect your community. Learn more about SEMO’s University Police Academy at semo.edu/police-academy.