WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., July 12, 2022 — Once again, West Liberty University welcomed the Annual West Virginia Sheriff’s Association Youth Leadership Academy this week. The academy formerly met on the Hilltop during the summers of 2019 and 2021.
Approximately 120 campers and law enforcement officers moved into Krise Hall for the week of training and information that includes participation in events such as a mock crash, mock trials, ALICE training and CPR certification that culminates in an official graduation ceremony at the end of the week.
Officers from different counties work the camp to bring students together with the police force to see what it’s like to be in the shoes of an officer on duty.
Today’s (July 12) activity includes a helicopter landing on the baseball field around 6 p.m.
The group of 9 -12th graders are interested in law enforcement and civics for the most part, according to Ohio County Sheriff Tom Howard.
WLU Area Coordinator Camille Irvin is working with the campers and overseeing the housing arrangements.
“We look forward to welcoming this lively group of youth from all over the Mountain State and hope that they enjoy every moment of their time on our beautiful campus. We thank the West Virginia Sheriff’s Association for choosing West Liberty University for the location of this important camp,” said Irvin.
Some of the campers will take part in a staged safety drill on Thursday as WLU holds an active shooter drill for its police officers and safety leaders. Sheriff Howard has been an important part of the planning of the drill.
“This is a great experience for youth, they learn about careers in public service and interact with law enforcement, plus they find out how law enforcement work,” Sheriff Howard said.
Please click here to view WTRF TV7 news coverage of the academy.