Keiser University graduate, Justin Ferrari, who earned his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice was recently honored by the Florida Sheriff’s Association with the 2017 Law Enforcement of the Year award. Having been with the Volusia County Sheriff’s office since 2015 this was an unexpected honor to be recognized by his peers in this way.
“The significance of being recognized by the 67 Sheriffs throughout the state of Florida, for doing what needed to be done and what my fellow officers do daily, is an enormous honor,” shared Justin Ferrari, Deputy Sheriff with Volusia County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO) and graduate of Keiser University’s Criminal Justice program. “With my mom having been a police officer, there was never a question I would choose law enforcement for a career and it has been what I have done since my first professional job at eighteen.”
For Ferrari, who has been with the VCSO since 2015, his passion is being able to help people and make a true difference in the lives of those he encounters. With his interest in the criminal justice field starting early, he was involved with the Police Explorers during high school, which is where he met Dr. Cassandra Renzi who became a mentor to him and helped him learn about avenues he could pursue to enhance his career.
“I have known Justin since he was in the Police Explorer’s program and have worked with him throughout his career, even encouraging him to join the Volusia County Law Enforcement Program so he could earn his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. This honor is very well deserved and I am so proud of him for all of his professional accomplishments,” stated Dr. Cassandra Renzi, Keiser University Statewide Department Chair of Criminal Justice.
Keiser University turned out to be a logical choice for him as a working professional. He was working the night shift at the police department and needed a college that he could adjust his work schedule around. He was able to take online classes to complete his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, which has helped him advance in his career.
In a recorded message, Sheriff Mike Chitwood of the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office shared thoughts on this award. “Deputy Justin Ferrari, congratulations on your well-deserved award. You represent what we all, in law enforcement, stand for: honor, integrity, service, and courage. Congratulations on your award. We expect many great things from you in the years to come.”
To view the Florida Sheriff’s Association video visit this link.
Sheriff Demings, Orange Co. Sheriff’s Office and President of the Florida Sheriff’s Association, presenting Justin Ferrari his award as Governor Scott looks on.
My instructors believed in me. They were more than instructors, they tried to get to know you as a person and tried to understand your goals so they could push you towards them. Student services helped me find a job before I even graduated. Everyone was dedicated to my overall success.
