November 22, 2021

TAMPA, Fla— Walton County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the graduation of Sergeant Tabitha Lewis from the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute Florida Leadership Academy, Class 49.

Forty-one first-line supervisors representing 35 criminal justice agencies throughout the state graduated Friday at Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Tampa.

The graduates met for four week-long sessions, learning skills necessary to support the needs of their agencies and their communities as they prepare for future challenges.

The goal of the Florida Leadership Academy is to prepare first-line supervisors in criminal justice organizations to exemplify the character and integrity expected of criminal justice professionals and to examine the various components necessary to being an efficient leader.

“Tabitha is well on her way to becoming a rising leader at our agency,” said Sheriff Michael Adkinson. “Her dedication and drive have proven she is committed to serving her community in a leadership role.”

The Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute, which is housed within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and affiliated with the State University System, was established in 1990 by the Florida Legislature to address the need for an innovative and multi-faceted approach to education and training of criminal justice professionals.