Coon Rapids Police Captain Graduates from Prestigious Northwestern Leadership Program

COON RAPIDS, MN - The Coon Rapids Police Department (CRPD) celebrated Patrol Captain Troy Hyland on November 21, following his graduation from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff & Command (SPSC), one of the nation’s most respected law enforcement leadership programs.

As part of its annual leadership development plan, CRPD selected Captain Hyland to represent the department in SPSC’s 621st class, hosted this session by the Saint Paul Police Department. In a statement, the department noted that Hyland “represented us proudly,” highlighting both his individual achievement and the department’s commitment to cultivating strong leadership.

A Rigorous Program for Modern Policing

Founded in 1983 under Northwestern University’s Center for Public Safety, SPSC provides an intensive 10-week curriculum designed for mid- and upper-level law enforcement supervisors. Graduates earn six undergraduate credits and participate in a program recognized nationwide for its rigor and practical relevance.

The curriculum blends academic study with real-world applications, covering critical areas such as:

• Organizational behavior and leadership
• Strategic planning and policy development
• Budgeting and resource allocation
• Human resources and personnel management
• Media relations
• Contemporary policing strategies
• Mitigating legal exposure

A key component of the program is a “staff study,” in which participants research and develop solutions to a pressing challenge within their home agency. These studies often result in actionable improvements, from enhanced training protocols to streamlined administrative procedures.

SPSC graduates leave equipped to “think strategically rather than task-oriented,” deliver services efficiently, manage teams effectively, and build robust accountability systems.

Impact on the Coon Rapids Police Department

Captain Hyland, who oversees the department’s patrol operations, is expected to apply the leadership and management strategies learned at SPSC to strengthen community policing, improve operational efficiency, and guide departmental growth.

The department’s investment in advanced leadership training underscores its commitment to preparing officers for the increasingly complex challenges of modern law enforcement. By supporting professional development at this level, CRPD aims to ensure that its leaders are ready to navigate evolving public safety demands thoughtfully and proactively.

MinneapoliMedia