Rasmussen College Honors Fallen Officers During National Police Week

National Police Week dates back to 1962 when President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week that follows as National Police Week. During this week, thousands of police officers flock to the nation’s capital to honor fallen soldiers while others pay their respects locally. Several educational events, community activities and fundraisers will be held across the 21 Rasmussen College campus locations in Minnesota, Illinois, Florida, North Dakota, and Wisconsin in honor of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to pay tribute to those who continue to serve.

“Every day thousands of officers put on their badge and their uniform, leaving their families and putting their lives on the line to protect people they don’t even know. Some of them never come home. We are honored to be able to thank all law enforcement officers for their dedication and sacrifice during National Police Week,” Rasmussen College School of Justice Studies Director Matthew Petz said. “As a former police officer and husband of a cop, I understand the immense sacrifice that goes into law enforcement. This week is an opportunity for those of us at Rasmussen College to show our appreciation for all that they do.”

At its Fort Myers, Florida college campus of Rasmussen College, Master Patrol Officer Matthew Besheer, who was assigned to the FBI NYPD Joint Terrorist Task Force to hunt for suspected 9/11 terrorists, will speak on May 26. In Minnesota, Officer Chad Sanow, who survived a gunshot to the chest, will receive a plaque and speak to students at the Mankato campus on May 17, and police officers and their families are invited to attend a barbeque, hosted by the Eagan campus on May 19. Also, the Green Bay, Wisconsin campus has invited Deputy Sheriff Trevor Bilgo of the Brown County Sheriff’s Department to present on police dogs with his K9 partner on May 17, after a moment of silence is observed.

These events are open to the public, and community members are encouraged to come and show their support for their local peace officers.

The School of Justice Studies at Rasmussen College features a criminal justice degree with specializations in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, and psychology. There are also associate’s degrees in human services, paralegal, and law enforcement in many locations and online. For additional information about the Rasmussen College School of Justice Studies, visit https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/justice-studies/.