Sacramento FBI Announces 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award Recipient: WEAVE, Inc.

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The Sacramento Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is pleased to announce that WEAVE, Inc. is the recipient of the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award.  The annual award recognizes the achievement of an individual or organization for commitment to violence education and prevention.

“It is an honor to be able to present WEAVE, Inc. with the Director’s Community Leadership Award for commitment to crisis intervention and prevention in our region,” said Herb Brown, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Sacramento FBI field office. “Beth Hassett and her team’s outstanding efforts have continually increased the community’s understanding of domestic violence and sexual assault and have ensured that victims have resources available to begin the healing process.”

Since opening as a grassroots organization in 1978, WEAVE has become a large, nationally recognized agency that provides crisis intervention and prevention services to women, men and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in the Sacramento region. Focused on eliminating the cycle of violence and abuse, WEAVE dedicates significant resources to prevention and education programs in addition to essential victims services.  In 2011, WEAVE realized the following successes:

■197 women and 168 children found refuge at the safe house for an average of 27 days each

■15,865 callers received help from the 24-hour support line
■1,006 women and men received counseling
■57 children received therapy to break the cycle of violence
■1,404 victims received legal services
■212 rape victims were accompanied at the hospital during evidence collection.

“I am honored that WEAVE has been chosen as the Sacramento area recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award.  WEAVE believes that all women, men, and children deserve to feel safe in their homes and community,” said Beth Hassett, executive director of WEAVE. “In these difficult times we have to be more innovative, more enthusiastic and more committed to making sure that the most vulnerable among us are taken care of.  The award represents our continued efforts to create a cohesive response to victims and accountability for perpetrators.”

For more than two decades, Beth Hassett, executive director of WEAVE, has been a volunteer and staff member for non-profit organizations focused on improving the quality of life in the Sacramento region and beyond. As the executive director of WEAVE, Hassett leads a team of advocates, counselors, educators, and volunteers who share the common goal of bringing an end to domestic violence and sexual assault in the community.

In addition to her position with WEAVE, Hassett currently serves as a commissioner on the First Five Sacramento Commission, president of the Planned Giving Forum of Sacramento, treasurer of the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA), vice president of the Midtown Business Association, secretary of the Sacramento Children’s Coalition, and is a member of both the ALS Association National Board of Representatives and the board of the ALS Association of Greater Sacramento. She was appointed to the statewide Domestic Violence Advisory Council by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2010 and graduated from the Sacramento FBI Citizens Academy in 2011.

Hassett will accept the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of WEAVE, Inc. from SAC Brown during a small ceremony held at the Sacramento field office at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 30, 2011. Hassett will also travel to FBI Headquarters in Washington D.C. to receive the official engraved crystal award from FBI Director Robert Mueller on March 16, 2012, at a public ceremony.

About WEAVE

Established in 1978, WEAVE provides crisis intervention and prevention services to women, men, and children in Sacramento County who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking. Key programs include a safehouse for women and children, a sexual assault response team, a 24-hour support and information line, counseling, legal services, and prevention education for youth and adults.

Media Contact:

Gina Swankie, (916) 214-8309

Aaron T. Ford Named Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Memphis Division

Special Agent Aaron T. Ford has read and learned from some of the best leadership books.  You should do the same and become a leader in your workplace.

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Aaron T. Ford special agent in charge of the FBI’s Memphis Division. Mr. Ford most recently served as an inspector in the FBI’s Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ) since August 2010. He oversaw field office and FBIHQ inspections, shooting incident review teams, audits, and special inquiries.

Mr. Ford began his career as an FBI agent in August 1985. His first assignment was to the St. Louis Division, where he worked violent crime and organized crime matters. He was also a SWAT team member, where he participated in the execution of numerous high-risk threats, search warrants, and protective details.

In June 1989, Mr. Ford transferred to the Newark Division. He served as team leader on the SWAT team. In August 1998, he was promoted to supervisory special agent on a drug squad.

Two years later, in January 2000, he became a supervisor for the public corruption/civil rights squad. In August 2005, he was assigned as supervisory special resident agent of the Red Bank Resident Agency. While in this role, he supervised all criminal matters.

Mr. Ford returned to FBIHQ in February 2006 as a team leader in the Inspection Division, where he served until August 2007. He participated in the auditing of all FBI programs. In October 2007, he made his way back to the Newark Division as assistant special agent in charge. Mr. Ford oversaw the administrative branch and later the criminal enterprise branch.

Prior to his FBI career, he served as a special agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Ford investigated violent crime, fugitive, drug, and corruption cases.

Mr. Ford is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminology from Tennessee State University and a Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers School of Law.

Phoenix's community relations officer brings people together

Whether a police officer or active community member, learn from the best leadership book to become a leader like Rudy Bustamante!

If anyone knows Phoenix, it's Rudy Bustamante. He's spent his entire life there, serving in community roles ranging from police detective to school board member. When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was looking for a community relations officer for the Phoenix area, Bustamante was the perfect fit. Two years into the position, he works tirelessly to educate advocacy groups, schools, neighborhoods, and local law enforcement agencies about ICE.

"People are totally surprised at what we do," he said.

It's a common misconception that ICE focuses only on immigration. While that's part of the agency's mission, ICE also serves as the largest investigative agency in the Department of Homeland Security. ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents enforce customs laws, conduct drug and human smuggling investigations, detect financial fraud, and more.

"Rudy is able clear up miscommunication about what each federal agency's role is," said Michael Nowakowski, a Phoenix city councilman. "Rudy has helped bring the community together and understand the role of ICE. Everyone wants to lock up bad people. If you're smuggling human bodies across the border, you're going to jail. No one wants to have a human smuggler next door."

Like Nowakowski, people want to know what's happening in their communities, especially when ICE is involved.

"I'll call my contacts from my cell phone from the scene when we execute a search warrant. That provides them with an idea of what's going on, and they appreciate that," said Bustamante.

 You'll also find Bustamante making presentations at schools and meeting with advocacy group leaders at local coffee shops. He considers in-person meetings to be of great importance because that's how he builds rapport and trust with the local community.

 During those interactions, he uses the Steven R. Covey quote, "Seek to understand; then to be understood," as a guiding principle.

In order to be effective, "You must first listen. Then, you can share what you have to offer and how you can help out," said Bustamante. "ICE employees are part of the community. They work here, go to school here. They have a vested interest in keeping your community safe."

Face of Defense: ‘Soldier of the Year’ Leads by Example

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 2, 2011 – She is, by one measure, the best soldier in the Army: a first sergeant -- the enlisted leader of an Army company -- and single mother, who stands about 5 feet tall and whose personal email address includes the moniker “short dawg.”

But according to the troops, commanders and civilians who work alongside her, 1st Sgt. Monekia Denkins’ influence far exceeds her physical stature.

Denkins, recently chosen as Army Times newspaper’s 2011 Soldier of the Year, received some two dozen unsolicited letters in support of her nomination for that award. Fellow members of the South Korea-based 201st Signal Company wrote of her tolerance, guidance, mentorship and motivation and leadership.

Denkins’ leadership style is indicated within many nomination letters that describe her attitude toward rank. As one letter put it, “On a weekly basis we held meetings in the conference room and [Denkins] would start it out the same: ‘Everyone take off your rank. In this room rank doesn’t matter, for we are family and everyone has a voice. If anyone has anything they need to get off their chest, now is the time, for once we walk out of this room we speak with one voice.’”

Denkins and Army Capts. Keila Sanchez-Erazo and Gary Jones, her current and former company commanders with the 201st, spoke with American Forces Press Service during Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta’s visit here last week. Denkins introduced Panetta to the crowd at a town hall gathering, addressing them as “leaders.”

“I refer to all of my soldiers as leaders, because leaders must believe in themselves -- people must believe in themselves,” she told AFPS. “My soldiers are referred to as leaders, not by rank, … because I want them to be able to go out there and be able to accomplish any mission.”

Denkins said she considers it her job to show soldiers what right looks like.

“I am the example. My commander is the example,” she said. “Beyond that, I make them face their fears head-on.”

Poor leaders are those who don’t meet established standards, she said.

“There’s one standard. You can always rise above the standard, but you don’t drop below. … It’s not an 82nd Airborne [Division] standard, it’s not a Fort Bragg standard, it’s not a Korea standard. It’s the Army standard that we compete against,” Denkins added.

She admitted the letters supporting her nomination surprised her.

“Really and truly, I thought they all hated me because of how I am,” she said. “But when you’re part of a team, you’ve got to push people to the point where they feel very uncomfortable. … When they’re uncomfortable and they can face it and overcome it, there’s no better feeling. You can see it in their faces that they believe they can accomplish anything.”

The first sergeant said during 20 years in the Army, she never has worried about being liked.

“When we have to fight and win tonight, [‘like’ is] not going to get us there,” she said. “It’s not about likership, it’s about military leadership.”

Sanchez-Erazo, who commands the 201st, said that while Denkin’s soldiers may not say so to her face, they truly admire the ability that she has to build them up. “She finds ways to make them believe in themselves,” the captain said.

Jones, former 201st commander, said Denkins not only leads her troops through their military tasks, but supports them in life challenges as well. For example, he said, one soldier in the company, a 19-year-old “super troop,” tested positive for HIV about a year ago.

“Absolutely outstanding soldier,” he said. “When he was first diagnosed, it was a very, very difficult time for him. The person that he went to was First Sergeant Denkins.”

During the three weeks before the soldier returned to the United States, Jones said, Denkins was by his side, helping him to cope with the news and the difficulty of sharing it with his family.

“There are so many leaders today who have a false sense of care,” he said. “You see the stories about toxic leadership -- leaders who only care about their careers. But she never looks up; she always looks to the soldiers.”

Denkins said the other soldiers in the unit never knew about that soldier’s condition, and he returned to the United States with his dignity intact. “I wanted him to concentrate on getting better, because this is not a death sentence,” she said, noting that she asks herself how she’d want to be treated when a tough situation arises. And when she faces a “point of no return” situation, Denkins said, her first thought is to turn it around.

“One human life lost is way too many, because one person can affect thousands,” she said. “So I’ve got to figure out a way to turn a situation around. I don’t sleep well at night, because I’m always thinking. I always want to make it better.”

Denkins admitted her time as a first sergeant has made her look at herself in a new light. Jones and Sanchez-Erazo build her up by challenging her to take better care of herself, she said.

“They see something that I haven’t taken time to look at, and that’s me,” she said. “I’m the last person to get fed.”

Denkins was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2008, and while she admits to not always taking her medicine as she should, she doesn’t let the condition slow her down. Jones said he once carried the first sergeant to the emergency room, where she was told to take three days off. Denkins was back at work later that morning, he added.

As a single parent, Denkins said, her 18-year-old son, Marquel, has had to get by on the “not a lot that’s left” when her duty day ends.

“It’s not a good balance,” she acknowledged. “I spend more time at work, … but when I am with my son, it’s quality time. And I will back him up, and I push him to do anything he can do.”

Her soldiers have asked her son how he can live in the same house with her, Denkins said, and his response is it’s easy “if you do what you’re supposed to do.”

“I believe that it starts at home,” she said. “I am a very disciplined person -- I always tell everyone, it’s the small things that will trip you up. What I say to my soldiers, my son gets 40 times over.

“I’ve never had a problem with my son, not once,” she continued. “Marquel is a blessing to me -- he’s very, very disciplined. He’s very respectful.”

Denkins has been selected for promotion to sergeant major, and she’s slated to attend the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy next year. Denkins said she considered retiring a while back, but has decided against it.

“I was actually getting a little disgruntled,” she said. “When you start seeing stories about toxic leaders, I take that personally, because I am a leader. For those who are out there who don’t want to do the right thing, I think they should be the ones who retire.”

Denkins said she’s looking forward to attending the academy.

“I want to do my best, because if you don’t have to worry about Denkins, that’s one less soldier you’ve got to worry about.”

Denkins said she has seen the standing of women in the military improve during her career.

“Now, as far as sitting at the table with the males, we’re coming a long way,” she said. “We’re noticing there are females that go into combat, they get into situations, and they survive.” She added some advice for other women in uniform.

“Don’t let somebody tell you that you can’t do something because you’re a female,” she said. “Stay grounded, focus, and you can achieve anything that you want to if you believe in yourself. But it starts with you.”

MCPON Holds Leadership Mess Symposium

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By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Abraham Essenmacher, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) concluded his annual Leadership Mess Symposium in Suffolk, Va., Oct. 28, which included more than 100 Fleet, Force and flag-level command master chiefs.

The goal of the symposium was to deliver clear, concise communication on Navy programs and practices to the Navy's top enlisted leaders for continued force effectiveness. They received a full spectrum of timely information regarding policies and processes affecting today's Navy.

"Our Navy's greatest asset is our Sailors and it's critical for the Chief's Mess to be on the same page with challenging, leading and mentoring Sailors," said MCPON (SS/SW) Rick D. West. "A key part of our ability to achieve those objectives is awareness of the issues affecting our service and the resources available to make the team successful."

MCPON's Leadership Mess received briefs from several flag officers including Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Scott R. Van Buskirk, and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources Vice Adm. John T. Blake.

Current topics including energy, budget and programming, suicide prevention, operational stress control, strategic communication, Spice, Fleet manning initiatives, uniform matters and the different phases of the CPO 365 program. Attendees also participated in group breakout sessions to focus on several current Fleet priorities.

"Our master chiefs are working hard with their commanders to ensure we are always mission-ready and looking forward to the next target on the horizon," said West. "This forum allows us to hear firsthand from senior leaders and subject-matter experts, and then to discuss those issues among deckplate leaders. The objective is for our command master chiefs to have the latest information that they can share with the Sailors in their areas of responsibility."

With significant budget concerns and other challenges facing the Armed Forces, West believes senior enlisted leaders need to possess a solid understanding of the Navy's approach to effectively balancing combat readiness with fiscal realities, and to shaping the force in a manner that preserves quality of service for Sailors and their families.

"We serve in a Navy that is always evolving and changing to meet current and future global requirements," said West. "If we are going to continue to be the best Navy ever, the Chiefs' Mess and our senior enlisted leaders must grow professionally and be familiar with every aspect of our Navy," said West.

Border Patrol Agent Receives Prestigious Award

Become a police leader like Agent Dikman! Learn from these police leadership books written by real police who rose to leadership positions.

NAU Honors Sabri Dikman as Distinguished Citizen of the Year

Tucson, Ariz. – The “Dr. Cliff Harkins Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award” was presented to current Branch Chief of Operations for the Joint Field Command-Arizona during a ceremony at the NAU Homecoming football game held at the Walkup Skydome in Flagstaff on October 22.

Sabri Dikman was honored by the Northern Arizona University Alumni Association for his “exemplary service to community and strong leadership” for his tenure as deputy patrol agent in charge of the Nogales Station throughout 2010.

 “I am truly honored to be named the 2011 recipient of the Cliff Harkins Distinguished Citizen of the Year award” said Dikman “This honor brings the hard work of the men and women of the Border Patrol especially those assigned to the Tucson Sector, and more specifically the Nogales Station, into the public light.”

The Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award was established in 2002 to recognize individuals working for nonprofit organizations; governmental assignments at the municipal, county, state or federal level; or other outstanding service as a citizen.

In June of 2010, Dikman assumed the role of interim Assistant Patrol Agent in Charge of the Nogales Station, the largest and one of the busiest stations in the United States. His interim status was made permanent in October 2010. Two months later, on Dec. 7, he was promoted to Acting Patrol Agent in Charge of the Nogales Station; a position he held until July 2011.

Dikman was nominated for the award by R. Alan Booth, then Branch Chief of Operations for Joint Field Command-Arizona. He said Dikman led his men and women through a tragic and challenging time shortly after taking charge when Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was murdered.

Booth wrote in his recommendation that Dikman ensured every resource was effectively applied to facilitate the investigation and bring the responsible parties to justice. At the same time, Dikman ensured his other employees received emotional support. “The hallmark of his leadership was demonstrated in the selfless way he lead his team through the worst possible circumstances any law enforcement family can encounter,” said Booth.

Under Dikman’s leadership, according to Booth’s recommendation, the Nogales Station significantly reduced illicit cross border traffic by acquiring much-needed additional resources, personnel and key technology. Through his leadership and vision, these resources were deployed to maximize efficiency and create an optimum enforcement posture.

Booth said he has been Dikman’s colleague for several years and has come to know him on and off duty. “Aside from working 12-hour days to secure the Nation’s border,” said Booth, “he also engaged the Nogales community by regularly meeting with a community advisory board, comprised of key stakeholders and influential residents, to ensure the best possible relationship between the Border Patrol and local residents.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Andrew Weissmann Appointed as FBI’s General Counsel

FBI Director Robert S. Mueller has named Andrew Weissmann as the general counsel. He joined the FBI after five-and-a-half years as a partner at Jenner & Block LLP in New York City. Mr. Weissmann is returning to the FBI, having previously served as special (police leadership) counsel to the Director in 2005.

Mr. Weissmann was a federal prosecutor for 15 years in the Eastern District of New York, where he served as the deputy chief and then chief of the criminal division. He prosecuted numerous members of the Colombo, Gambino, and Genovese families, including the bosses of the Colombo and Genovese families. He also prosecuted or oversaw white-collar crime and terrorism cases. He later served as the director of the Enron Task Force in Washington, D.C., where he supervised the prosecution of more than 30 individuals in connection with the company’s collapse.

Mr. Weissmann has extensive experience in private practice. He has represented both U.S. and foreign corporations and executives in connection with criminal and civil investigations and lawsuits. Mr. Weissmann won the largest Financial Industry Regulatory Authority arbitration award in history. He also has taught criminal law and procedure at two law schools.

Mr. Weissmann has a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School and was on the managing board of the Columbia Law Review. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University and attended the University of Geneva for one year on a Fulbright Fellowship.

Teresa Carlson Named Special Agent in Charge of the Milwaukee Division

See the best police leadership books to join the ranks of police leaders like Teresa Carlson.

Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Teresa L. Carlson special agent in charge of the FBI’s Milwaukee Division. Ms. Carlson most recently served as section chief in the Directorate of Intelligence, which is responsible for collecting, producing, and disseminating actionable intelligence that enables the FBI to identify and counter current and emerging threats.

Ms. Carlson is a 19-year veteran of the FBI. She entered on duty as a special agent and was first assigned to the Chicago Division, where she investigated violent crimes and public corruption matters. Ms. Carlson was a case agent for Operation Silver Shovel, an undercover investigation that involved bribery, drug trafficking, and organized crime activity. It resulted in more than 20 convictions, including elected officials.

She was later promoted to the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Carlson then transferred to the Birmingham Division, where she served as a supervisor in the white-collar crime program.

After serving in the Birmingham Division, Ms. Carlson was appointed assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) of the white-collar crime and cyber programs in the New York Division. While in this role, she oversaw high-profile investigations and subsequently was in charge of the intelligence program for the division.

She returned to FBI Headquarters after working as ASAC in the New York Division. Ms. Carlson worked in the FBI’s National Security Branch, which is responsible for national security matters, including budget matters and liaison with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Congress, and the White House.

Ms. Carlson is from Grand Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University. Prior to her career in the FBI, she did legal research for the Michigan Legislature.

Teresa Carlson Named Special Agent in Charge of the Milwaukee Division

Become a police leader like Teresa Carlson by learning from the best police leadership books written by real police leaders!

Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Teresa L. Carlson special agent in charge of the FBI’s Milwaukee Division. Ms. Carlson most recently served as section chief in the Directorate of Intelligence, which is responsible for collecting, producing, and disseminating actionable intelligence that enables the FBI to identify and counter current and emerging threats.

Ms. Carlson is a 19-year veteran of the FBI. She entered on duty as a special agent and was first assigned to the Chicago Division, where she investigated violent crimes and public corruption matters. Ms. Carlson was a case agent for Operation Silver Shovel, an undercover investigation that involved bribery, drug trafficking, and organized crime activity. It resulted in more than 20 convictions, including elected officials.

She was later promoted to the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Carlson then transferred to the Birmingham Division, where she served as a supervisor in the white-collar crime program.

After serving in the Birmingham Division, Ms. Carlson was appointed assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) of the white-collar crime and cyber programs in the New York Division. While in this role, she oversaw high-profile investigations and subsequently was in charge of the intelligence program for the division.

She returned to FBI Headquarters after working as ASAC in the New York Division. Ms. Carlson worked in the FBI’s National Security Branch, which is responsible for national security matters, including budget matters and liaison with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Congress, and the White House.

Ms. Carlson is from Grand Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University. Prior to her career in the FBI, she did legal research for the Michigan Legislature.

Robert J. Holley Named Special Agent in Charge of Indianapolis Division

Robert J. Holley is one of many distinguished police leaders. Become like him or even better by checking out the best police leadership books, all written by police leaders.

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Robert J. Holley special agent in charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Division. Mr. Holley most recently served as a section chief in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters, where he was involved in the management of the FBI’s U.S. based international terrorism investigations.

Mr. Holley began his career as a special agent in 1995, and reported to the Chicago Division after graduation from New Agents Training in Quantico, Virginia.

While in Chicago, he was assigned to investigate domestic and international terrorism matters. He also served as a member of the Chicago Division’s SWAT team and a special agent bomb technician. During his time in the division, he was promoted to supervisory special agent and supervised an international terrorism squad.

In November 2005, Mr. Holley was promoted and assigned to FBI Headquarters as a unit chief in the Counterterrorism Division. He was deployed to Yemen, Iraq, Pakistan, India, Tanzania, and Israel in support of the FBI’s number one priority, counterterrorism.

Mr. Holley transferred back to the Chicago Division, where he served as assistant special agent in charge of the National Security Branch from 2008-2010.

Prior to his FBI career, he served in the U.S. Army as an infantry officer.

Mr. Holley is a native of Indiana. He graduated from Peru High School in 1977, and from Ball State University in 1981. He and his wife Toni have one son, Dakota.

CBP Field Operations at Port of Brownsville Graduates Second Citizen's Academy Class

Only well-respected community leaders make it to the Citizen's Academy. Check out the best leadership book and learn how to be like them!

Brownsville, TX – On October 6, Michael Freeman, Port Director, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Brownsville Port of Entry announced the graduation of a second class of the CBP Field Operations Brownsville Citizen’s Academy. 

The CBP Field Operations Brownsville Citizen’s Academy is part of a continuing aggressive plan by Port Director Freeman to foster a better working relationship with the communities in which officers live and work.

The eight-week course provides class participants with a better working knowledge and understanding of CBP.

The academy consists of a series of classroom discussions and several hands-on scenarios. The citizen’s academy is a field training that was held once a week on Wednesday evenings for eight weeks.

The BCA continues to create a better understanding, improves communication, and helps solidify a better partnership between the citizen academy participants and CBP through education. Brownsville Port of Entry Citizen’s Academy graduates have assisted us in identifying potential problems and solutions to border issues.

This second Brownsville Citizen’s Academy graduating class consisted of members from throughout the community. Represented in this academy class were members from the following organizations:

U.S. Consulate, Matamoros: Andrew Crosson, Jennifer Nilson and Jeremy Monks

Mexico Consulate, Brownsville: Raul Gomez and Efrain Hernandez Parra
Mexico Customs: Zaida Villarreal Snyder and Hector Eduardo Castillo
Brownsville & Rio Grande Railroad: Norma Torres and Eric Hinojosa
Union Pacific Railroad: Fernando GarzaZ
Port of Brownsville: Antonio Rodriguez

“Participants of our Citizen’s Academies will assist us in getting our message out into the communities. I applaud these academy participants for attending each session and getting a first-hand, hands-on, behind-the-scenes look into the CBP mission on the frontlines,” said Michael Freeman, CBP Port Director, Brownsville port of entry.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

ONR Cultivates Next Generation of Talent at Hispanic Engineering Conference

These talented young engineers are the cream of the military leadership crop.  Check out these military leadership books to become like these heroes!

From Office of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- Students will gain new insights about science and technology opportunities with the Department of the Navy at the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Corporation's (HENAAC) 2011 Career Conference, Oct. 6-8, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) will exhibit with displays and information to support the Navy's push to stimulate interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and careers.

"HENAAC affords ONR the chance to make meaningful connections with the Hispanic community. We want to establish long-term relationships that produce the unique technical talent the Navy will need in the future," said Dr. Anthony Junior, ONR's education programs manager.

The ONR booth also will highlight professional research opportunities at Navy laboratories for university faculty members who may be considering interim pursuits during summer breaks and sabbaticals.

"We are contributing to the STEM literacy of the nation with the expectation that some of these students will come to work for the Department of the Navy, whether on active-duty or as a civilian," said Junior.

The 23rd annual HENAAC event is expected to bring 5,000 visitors to this year's venue located at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. It will feature exhibits, seminars and activities, including a career fair, technical poster competition and the HENAAC College Bowl, a competition where students apply their technical knowledge and skills to compete for scholarship prizes.

The conference is hosted by Great Minds in STEM, the Los Angeles-based organization formally known as HENAAC-the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Corporation. Established in 1989, the nonprofit organization is promoting STEM careers in underserved communities to help bolster the nation's technological strength.

ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.

Norfolk FBI Announces 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award Recipient

Robert Stephens in but one example of leadership in American communities.  Check out the best leadership book to learn how to be like him or better.

Special Agent in Charge Alex J. Turner of the Norfolk Field Office of the FBI announced his selection of Mr. Robert Stephens, co-founder and facilitator of the Community Action Coalition of Suffolk, Virginia, as the local recipient of the FBI’s 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award for his commitment to positive community relations.

Mr. Stephens, a pragmatic visionary, has been working with the community of Suffolk, Virginia since 2009 when he began to solicit community input to establish a community-wide youth development and violence prevention strategy. In 2010, Mr. Stephens formed the Community Action Committee (CAC), a non-profit organization, in response to continued youth violence, juvenile delinquency, lack of responsive prevention, and, ultimately, the citizens’ call for change. Today, the CAC serves as a catalyst for a series of programs and convener of initiatives that address socio-cultural and economic issues in the City of Suffolk.

Under the leadership of Mr. Stephens, the CAC was instrumental in launching a student-led, anti-violence campaign known as Be Fight Free (BFF) during the 2010-2011 school year to develop youth leaders that would spread awareness of violence in schools and in the community of Suffolk. As BFF student committees were formed in schools, students began to garner additional support from the school division and local law enforcement. Furthermore, students planned and executed rallies, distributed BFF wristbands and buttons, and placed campaign banners in schools. In January 2011, Suffolk Public Schools designated January as Violence Prevention Month to coordinate with the BFF Campaign. As a result of this effort, students have reportedly become more vocal and willing to reach outside of the boundaries of schools and challenge the community at large to address violence. In King’s Fork High School, over 700 students signed pledges to remain violence free. In addition, Lakeland High School has witnessed a 70 percent decrease in the amount of violent acts.

Mr. Stephens will be formally presented with the award on Monday, October 3, 2011, at 1:30 p.m. at the office of the Norfolk FBI, located at 150 Corporate Boulevard, Norfolk, Virginia 23502. Members of the press and media are invited to attend.

Joseph Campbell Named Special Agent in Charge of the San Juan Division

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Joseph S. Campbell special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Juan Division. Mr. Campbell most recently served as an inspector in the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ), where he led teams responsible for sensitive investigations and the assessment of FBI operations and performance at FBIHQ and in field offices.

Mr. Campbell entered on duty as an FBI special agent in 1990 and was assigned to the Chicago Division after graduation from new agents training in Quantico, Virginia. While in Chicago, he investigated white-collar crime, public corruption, organized crime, and drug cases.

In November 1998, Mr. Campbell was promoted to supervisory special agent in the Counterterrorism Division, Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Operations Unit at FBIHQ, where he oversaw national WMD threat responses and investigations. In February 2001, he was promoted to supervisory special agent of the Joint Terrorism Task Force in the Denver Division. While in this position, he directed intelligence collection and the investigation of terrorism activity.

Mr. Campbell was assigned as an assistant inspector for the Inspection Division at FBIHQ in September 2004. He returned to the Denver Division in December 2005 as assistant special agent in charge, overseeing intelligence, WMD, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and cyber programs.

In March 2008, Mr. Campbell returned to FBIHQ as section chief in the Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate. As section chief, he directed national and international WMD training and exercises. Additionally, he oversaw the development and implementation of WMD countermeasures.

Mr. Campbell earned a Juris Doctorate from the Washburn University School of Law, and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Kansas.

Face of Defense: Civilian Cited for Preservation Efforts

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By Robert Goetz

502nd Air Base Wing

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE – An Air Force civilian employee who has worked here for years to preserve the base’s architectural heritage is the recipient of a prestigious national award.

Scott Shepherd of the 902nd Civil Engineer Squadron, the installation’s cultural resources manager, has earned the Secretary of the Interior Historic Preservation Award in the Federal Preservation Office category.

"As far as I'm concerned, I can't go any higher than this," said Shepherd, whose service here, in San Antonio, spans more than 20 years.

"Winning this award is unbelievable,” he continued, “but really it's for all the people who have supported historic preservation, from four-star generals to the workers who preserve these buildings."

Robert Rushing, the 902nd squadron’s management flight chief, said Shepherd "has been responsible for the preservation of this invaluable cultural treasure and he has done so with vigor and a call to duty beyond the description of his job."

Richard Trevino, the unit’s commander, said Shepherd has performed "at the highest level" throughout his more than 50 years of federal service.

"By working with Scott, one can easily see his integrity, dedication and professionalism in every aspect of his life," Trevino said. "As our cultural resources manager, he preserves the historical features of Randolph Air Force Base while ensuring no adverse impact to the many diverse missions on base.

“When one looks at the historical beauty and significance of Randolph, there is no doubt Scott deserves this prestigious award," Trevino added.

Shepherd became the cultural resources manager here in 1993, the same year the Texas Historical Commission listed the base among the state's 10 most endangered historic properties. Since then, the 80-year-old "Showplace of the Air Force," known for its Spanish colonial revival-style architecture, has been designated a national historic landmark.

"I'm proud we have 435 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, and we are a national historic landmark," Shepherd said. "That will ensure we protect our historic buildings for the future."

Shepherd was instrumental in obtaining funding and approval to remove paint and restore the high, bay windows on 16 hangars along the east and west flight lines, restoring them to their original condition.

"Adaptive reuse" is a key component of preservation efforts, he said.

"[By] using hangars and other structures as administrative offices, we're still able to maintain the historical significance of buildings, have a functional Air Force base and not affect the mission," he said. "These are historic buildings we can use in the 21st century."

Shepherd said it's the secretary of the interior's guidelines "that tell us what we can and can't to do to these buildings."

This year's Secretary of the Interior Historic Preservation Award recipients also include government and tribal employees in three other categories.

"In presenting these awards, I am giving thanks on behalf of all Americans to these extraordinary professionals for their outstanding contributions to historic preservation," Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said. "Their skill, dedication and professionalism are ensuring that the story of America continues to be passed down to future generations."

Keith L. Bennett Named Assistant Director of the Inspection Division

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Keith L. Bennett assistant director of the FBI’s Inspection Division. Mr. Bennett most recently served as deputy assistant director for the FBI’s Training Division.

Mr. Bennett began his career as an FBI special agent in 1987 and was initially assigned to the Salt Lake City Division. While there, he investigated white-collar crime and drug violations. He transferred to the San Diego Division, where he served from 1993 to 1998.

In 1998, Mr. Bennett was promoted to supervisory special agent at FBI Headquarters, where he provided support to the organized crime and drug programs. Two years later, he returned to the San Diego Division, where he supervised drug intelligence, counterterrorism, and alien smuggling squads and directed the San Diego Joint Terrorism Task Force.

While in San Diego, he served temporarily at FBI Headquarters as a team leader in the Inspection Division. He conducted inspections of field offices, Headquarters entities, and legal attaché offices.

In 2005, Mr. Bennett was appointed as assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) of the Phoenix Division. As ASAC, he was program manager of international and domestic terrorism, counterintelligence, and intelligence programs. He oversaw the special operations group, training, and SWAT programs.

He subsequently served as a special assistant to Director Mueller, where he provided counsel to the Director on policy and administrative matters. After serving as special assistant, he was selected as special agent in charge of the Cincinnati field office in 2007. 

Mr. Bennett graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He served on active duty from 1978 through 1983, and as a reservist from 1983 to 1987, earning the rank of lieutenant commander. After serving in the military, he served as a consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton in Washington, D.C.

Mark F. Giuliano Named Executive Assistant Director of the National Security Branch

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Mark F. Giuliano as the new executive assistant director of the National Security Branch (NSB) at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ). He most recently served as assistant director of the Counterterrorism Division at FBIHQ.

“I am confident that under Mark’s leadership in managing international and domestic counterterrorism investigations, NSB will continue its strategic focus and address new and emerging threats that endanger the United States and its citizens,” said Director Mueller.

Prior to his appointment as assistant director, Mr. Giuliano was the deputy assistant director for Operations Branch II, Counterterrorism Division at FBIHQ. He oversaw all domestic terrorism operations in the United States.

He was section chief of the Domestic Terrorism and Strategic Operation Section, and before his career in the Counterterrorism Division, he served as assistant special agent in charge of national security for the Atlanta Division. He was responsible for FBI counterterrorism and counterintelligence operations in Georgia, as well as that field office’s multi-agency Field Intelligence Group and Joint Terrorism Task Force. 

Mr. Giuliano served as the FBI’s on-scene commander in Afghanistan, where he led a group of FBI personnel who supported U.S. Special Forces components.

He was assigned as supervisory special agent of the Atlanta Division’s violent crimes and international terrorism squads. Prior to his assignment in Atlanta, Mr. Giuliano served in the Violent Crimes Section at FBIHQ, where he was responsible for the fugitive and Top Ten programs.  

Mr. Giuliano’s FBI career started at the Washington Field Office’s Safe Streets and Gang Task Force. He also served on the Special Weapons and Tactics team as an assault team leader. He received the Director’s Award for Excellence in investigation as a distinguished recipient.

David Cuthbertson Named Assistant Director of the Criminal Justice Information Services Division

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named David Cuthbertson assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division. Mr. Cuthbertson most recently served as special agent in charge of the El Paso Division.

Mr. Cuthbertson entered on duty as a special agent in 1988 and was assigned to the Cincinnati Division working motorcycle and violent street gangs and drug trafficking matters. In 1992, he transferred to the Dallas Division, where he investigated Mexican drug trafficking organizations. He was also assigned to the Plano Resident Agency, where he investigated white-collar crime, drug trafficking, and violent crime.

In 1997, Mr. Cuthbertson was promoted to a supervisory position in the Criminal Investigative Division. He also served as acting unit chief of the Latin American Unit and was later promoted to serve as field supervisor of the Denver Division’s Metro Gang Task Force. He eventually assumed program coordinator responsibilities for the organized crime and drug programs and supervised a criminal enterprise squad that was co-located with three multi-agency task forces.

Mr. Cuthbertson transferred to the Chicago Division in 2002, where he served as assistant special agent in charge of the Criminal Enterprise Branch. In 2004, he was given responsibility for the division’s international terrorism and domestic terrorism programs.

In 2003, Mr. Cuthbertson was designated as inspector in place and subsequently served as such during the inspections of the Cleveland, Buffalo, Laboratory, and Philadelphia Divisions.

Mr. Cuthbertson was promoted to section chief in the Criminal Justice Information Services Division in 2005. Shortly after, in 2006, he was promoted to deputy assistant director within the division.

Prior to the start of his FBI career, he graduated magna cum laude from William Jewel College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration and economics. He worked in the private industry as a staff accountant and accounting manager.

New FBI Deputy Director

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has announced that after 23 years of service, Deputy Director Timothy P. Murphy will retire from the FBI next month to take a position in the private sector. He has appointed Executive Assistant Director Sean M. Joyce to serve as the FBI’s next deputy director.

Director Mueller noted, “Tim Murphy has earned the respect and admiration of his FBI colleagues and that of the entire law enforcement and intelligence community. He will be missed.”

Mr. Murphy entered on duty as a special agent in September 1988. Since joining the FBI, his assignments included work in the Newark, Tampa, and Washington, D.C. Field Offices. He also served as special agent in charge of the Cincinnati Field Office. His positions at FBI Headquarters included assistant director of the Finance Division and associate deputy director. In the field, he managed investigative matters ranging from counterterrorism and organized crime to special operations.

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Mr. Joyce began his Bureau career as a special agent in 1987. He was first assigned to the Dallas Division, where he investigated violent crimes. He later worked on Colombian drug matters out of the Miami Field Office. In 1994, he became a member of the Bureau’s Hostage Rescue Team.

In 1998, Mr. Joyce returned to the Dallas Field Office and become a supervisory special agent over the violent crimes squad in 2001. He earned the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in 2004 for his work on a Dallas Division counterterrorism squad. He received the same award again a year later for his work on another counterterrorism matter.

In 2007, he joined the Washington Field Office as an assistant special agent in charge. The following year, he was named chief of the Counterterrorism Division’s International Terrorism Operations Section, with responsibility for international terrorism matters within the United States.

In 2009, Mr. Joyce was appointed assistant director of the FBI’s International Operations Division. He had previously served as the legal attaché in Prague and received an award for investigative excellence for his work in that country.

Since 2010, Mr. Joyce has been serving as executive assistant director of the National Security Branch, where he is responsible for the Bureau’s national security and intelligence operations.

Director Mueller said, “Sean Joyce has made tremendous contributions to the Bureau and met tough challenges head-on. I have every expectation that he will do the same as deputy director.”