KEY WEST, FL, November 13, 2023— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK)’s Institute for Public Safety (IPS) held a graduation ceremony for two academies on November 9 at the Key West Campus. A total of 15 cadets—12 in a basic law enforcement academy and three in a correctional officer academy—successfully completed their respective training program. Upon passing the state certification exam, each will be eligible to become Florida Law Enforcement Officers or Correctional Officers. 

Through partnerships with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Key West Police Department, all graduates have already secured employment. During the ceremony, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay swore in nine cadets and Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg swore in six cadets, inducting them into their new professions. 

Cathy Torres, CFK Director of IPS, recognized top performing graduates with special accolades. Leadership awards were given to class presidents Kesha Bernabe and Michael Beerbower. James Aurelio, III and Beerbower were recognized for their academic achievement and “Top Gun” shooting skills. Alyson Burns and Aurelio received Physical Fitness awards. “PIG” awards, which recognize pride, integrity, and guts, went to Yoniel Esquirol and James Simpson. 

CFK’s law enforcement officer and correctional officer programs satisfy the training requirements of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. CFK is currently accepting applications for two upcoming basic law enforcement academies. Applications are due on December 15 for an academy to be held at the Key West Campus, starting in January 2024 and ending in October 2024. The College is also accepting applications for an academy that will run from May 2024 to March 2025 at the Upper Keys Center. For more information about CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, visit the College’s website at 
https://www.cfk.edu/academics/academic-departments/institute-for-public-safety/.