Vienna police Capt. Tu Farhan on March 16 graduated as a member of the 285th session of the FBI National Academy, based in Quantico.
The academy offers 11 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend.
Nationally, fewer than 1 percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program. On average, these officers have 21 years of law-enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
The program also emphasizes physical fitness. Students train with academy fitness instructors during their 11 weeks at Quantico to tackle the “Yellow Brick Road,” a grueling 6.1-mile run and obstacle course. Upon completing the course, they receive the coveted yellow brick to signify their accomplishment.
FBI National Academy instructors, special agents and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training. Many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields.
The 285th session consisted of 247 law-enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law-enforcement agencies from 28 countries, four military organizations and five federal civilian organizations. FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at the ceremony.
A total of 54,154 graduates have completed the academy since it began in 1935. The academy is the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts. Since 1972, FBI National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits many of the courses offered.
Farhan, who joined the Vienna Police Department in 2000, is fluent in five foreign languages and routinely uses those skills to assist officers in matters requiring translation.
Other Vienna police officers have graduated from the FBI National Academy as well, including Deputy Chief Daniel Janickey and Capt. Arturo Sylmar.
