In Good Company: Special Edition — Jennifer Beck-Wilson
In Good Company usually introduces readers to new HR team members. This time, we’re highlighting a member of our team who stepped into a new role: participant, learner, and advocate.
Seeing Campus Safety Through New Eyes
When Jennifer signed up for George Mason University’s inaugural Citizen’s Police Academy, she expected to learn more about what police do. She didn’t expect how immersive or eye-opening the experience would be.
“I thought it would be interesting to learn more about the police—what they do and how they do it,” she said. “We’re an open campus, so they’re interacting with anyone and everyone who comes through.”
Stepping Outside Her Comfort Zone
During the 10-week program, one of the biggest surprises came early. A self-described “not a gun person,” Jennifer approached the program’s visit to a firing range with a mix of curiosity and nerves.
“It was actually really fun—more fun than I thought it would be,” she said. “And I was a better shot than I expected.”
Other hands-on moments, like using speed radar equipment, felt just as unfamiliar at first.
“There were moments where I thought, ‘I’m not certified for this,’” she said with a laugh. “But there was so much guidance and support.”
A New Perspective
As the program continued, the experience deepened. A visit to a local jail, along with sessions on victim services and forensic investigations, offered a closer look at the realities, and complexities, of public safety.
“It was really enlightening,” she said. “You see how complex it all is, and how much thought goes into managing different situations.”
The small cohort also helped create meaningful connections, with fellow participants and with the officers leading each session, all of whom Jennifer described as passionate and dedicated to their work.
Watching body camera footage throughout the program especially changed how Jennifer viewed police interactions.
“What stood out to me was how patient the officers were—even in really intense situations,” she said. “They’re there to support people, especially victims.”
By the end of the program, Jennifer walked away with a deeper respect for campus police and a stronger sense of confidence in engaging with them. She now feels prepared to reassure anyone who may be hesitant about reaching out.
Her advice for future participants?
“It’s not something you get to experience every day,” she said. “And I would absolutely do it again.”
This article was written by Ray Dominguez, Communications Specialist.