Police Officer Says Advanced Degree Is 'Major Ingredient For Success' In Dallas
Charles Vaughn is a Dallas police officer in the Office of Community Affairs and Employee Communications, which engages in proactive community outreach.
They work to bridge the gap between the citizens of the City of Dallas and the police department. They also work to build successful relationships with local businesses.
"We assess the needs of the community and address quality of life issues," said Vaughn.
"'Chief On The Beat' is an ongoing community engagement initiative where we bring local businesses like health and public safety vendors, for the public to see what services are available to them," said Vaughn.
"Volunteering is a valuable element," said Vaughn, who originally offered to help out at a community engagement event. Because of his positive attitude and willing spirit, he was soon offered the position of community engagement officer.
"I don't have a specific beat; I go where there is a need. I handle topics like drug awareness, anti-bullying, identify theft, theft, burglary and robbery prevention, holiday safety, banking safety, suspicious activity awareness and 911 education," said Vaughn.
Vaughn earned a bachelor's in speech communications from Mississippi Valley State University with a minor in vocal music education.
While in college, Vaughn was into acting, singing, football and student government. During a campus career day, representatives of the Dallas Police Department talked to Vaughn about what he was looking for in a career. He said he wanted a position where he could engage people, one that was not the same every day and something that would require him to stay in shape (not a desk job).
He participated in the on site entry exam and passed. Upon graduation, he moved to Dallas.
After seven years, Vaughn sees that it is important to pursue higher education.
"It is vital to an officer to continue learning simply because everything changes; nothing stays the same. People change, situations change, and your response to situations change. As one of my football coaches used to say, 'When you stop learning, you stop growing.' The police department makes sure that you earn continuing education credits, but to progress up the ranks, I see a master's degree as a major ingredient for success," said Vaughn.
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and
enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com