MISHAWAKA, Ind. – On Friday March 16, Mishawaka Police Uniform Division Chief, Jason Stefaniak was one of 223 law enforcement officers to graduate from the FBI National Academy Program in Quantico, Virginia.

The 271st Session of The National Academy had students from 48 states, the District of Columbia, 18 foreign countries, five military organizations, and five federal civil organizations.

The National Academy Program offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training for selected officers.

Officials say these officers have an average of 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in high level positions.

The National Academy has offered undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia due to accreditation by the university since 1972, and Chief Stefaniak earned 12 graduate level credits during his time at the FBI Academy.

FBI Director Christopher Wray was the main speaker at the graduation ceremony while the 271st class was represented by Lt. Ralph Cliento of the New York City Police Department.

Since the FBI National Academy was founded there have been a total of 50,808 graduates.