SPOTLIGHT: Student Officer Program

Secret Service Director James Murray's Message "Attitude, Aptitude and Courage"

By Student Officer John R. Sullivan III

This past August during the Student Officer Academy Week, Secret Service Director James Murray, a University alum, gave remarks to the Student Officer Program's annual luncheon. It has been the tradition for the Student Officer Program to have a guest speaker with a career in law enforcement. Never in the program’s existence has a director of a federal agency come to speak.

Director Murray was appointed by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was sworn in May 1st, 2019.

One of the biggest highlights of his talk was the idea of “attitude, aptitude, and courage.” He mentioned that no matter what career student officers land, having these traits will help them obtain their goals.

Director Murray also shared some of the great experiences that he had while working towards his degree at the University.

John Sullivan, father of Student Officer Russ Sullivan, was also in attendance. John Sullivan was a coworker of Director Murray.

Before his retirement, Mr. Sullivan held the position of Deputy Assistant Director. Director Murray created some smiles and laughter when he said the following: “This man knows more about me than my parents, and even my priest!” Mr. Sullivan polygraphed the Director before he began his career with the Secret Service.

As a department, we thank Director Murray for taking time to come visit his alma mater. It was a true privilege and honor to have him!