The Institute for Law Enforcement Administration (ILEA), part of The Center for American and International Law (CAIL), recently conducted the Civilian Leadership: Supervision program, a contract initiative for the Chicago Police Department (CPD). Held over two, 1-week sessions in October and November 2024 in Chicago, Illinois, the program brought CAIL’s expertise in leadership education to 52 CPD personnel, expanding its reach and strengthening law enforcement leadership across the United States.
Photo: Participants of ILEA's Civilian Leadership Program Participants at the Chicago Police Department
The program focused on equipping CPD personnel with advanced supervisory skills and leadership capabilities essential for navigating today’s complex law enforcement landscape. The comprehensive curriculum was led by ILEA Director Gregory Smith and Deputy Director Matt Clem and focused on equipping supervisors with essential skills for leadership, ethical decision-making, and effective team management.
Participants explored topics such as psychological communication methods, fostering diversity and inclusion, navigating workplace challenges, and building charismatic leadership. Practical sessions addressed strategies for managing employee motivation, preventing harassment, and handling difficult situations with professionalism and integrity. Participants also gained practical knowledge on transitioning into supervisory roles and creating workplace environments that prevent harassment, ensuring a foundation of professionalism and integrity.
Gregory Smith, Director of ILEA, emphasized the broader impact of the program:
"Expanding our programs to Chicago enables us to bring CAIL’s mission of fostering leadership and ethical excellence to more communities. By empowering CPD supervisors with the tools to lead effectively, we are contributing to stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve."
This initiative reflects CAIL’s commitment to advancing law enforcement leadership while building trust and positive outcomes in communities nationwide. By delivering customized, impactful training, CAIL continues to broaden its influence and improve the justice system.