University of Virginia Police

University of Virginia police officers are putting their badges aside and teaching caps on – becoming tutors for students in Albemarle County schools.

Spearheaded by Captain Bryant Hall, this program was developed in Albemarle County after seeing success with a similar program he started in Hampton Roads. “It actually changed my life,” said Bryant. “This program is near and dear to me because of the impact I was able to have on elementary aged students in the community.”

Challenged by a former Chief in Hampton Roads, Bryant says he was inspired to create a program that gives back to the community and shows that police officers are more than men in uniform with badges. He’s thrilled to have this program now in Albemarle County with the help of the Life Enrichment Program.

To date, 20 officers, including the chief and deputy chief are now trained to participate in the program. Albemarle County police officers are now getting involved in the program as well.

It’s not just about the academics. “We can put a badge and a uniform in front of them, and they can see us in a different way,” said Captain Bryant Hall of the UVA Police Department. “I think that’s one of the most successful portions of the program.”

“Policing is a big part of coming to the table and collaborating and building relationships,” said Chief Tim Longo, UVA Police Department. “I think officers are excited about the opportunity to build those relationships.”