From Badge to Excellence: Tony Gonzalez's Journey at Herzing University
In the demanding world of law enforcement, continuous education can be the key to advancement. For Tony Gonzalez, Captain of Administrative Services at his local sheriff's office, pursuing higher education at Herzing University opened doors to executive leadership and community impact that continue to shape his career today.
Finding the Right Fit for Career Advancement
As a working law enforcement officer with military service under his belt, Gonzalez needed an educational institution that understood the unique challenges faced by working adults.
"Herzing University provided significant support for working adults like me seeking to complete their educational goals," says Gonzalez, who graduated in 2015 with a BS in Criminal Justice through Herzing's Badge to Grad Program at the Kenosha campus.
The university's flexible scheduling options, including online, blended, and evening courses, proved crucial for balancing his professional duties with academic pursuits.
"This flexibility empowered me to choose when and how I wanted to learn, making balancing work, family, and education easier," Gonzalez reflects.
A Supportive Environment for Success
For Gonzalez, Herzing's commitment to student success went beyond flexible scheduling. As a military veteran, he appreciated the university's military-friendly policies that allowed him to utilize his veterans' benefits for education. The supportive learning environment and understanding faculty played crucial roles in his academic journey, particularly when facing challenges.
"I struggled with statistics," Gonzalez admits, "and the staff was great!"
This support system, combined with his dedication, led to impressive academic achievements, including graduating Cum Laude and being selected as the student commencement speaker.
Building Leadership Skills and Community Impact
Since completing his degree, Gonzalez has achieved numerous milestones in his law enforcement career, rising to become third in command at his agency. His commitment to professional development is exemplified by becoming the first member of his department to complete the prestigious FBI-LEEDA's comprehensive leadership training series, including:
● Supervisor Leadership Institute
● Command Leadership Institute
● Executive Leadership Institute
His contributions to the community haven't gone unnoticed. In 2022, Gonzalez was recognized as the Kenosha Hometown Hero, an honor bestowed upon outstanding military veterans who have made significant contributions to the community. Most recently, he was named the 2024 Distinguished Alumni by The Gateway Technical College Alumni Association, recognizing his continued impact on law enforcement and community service.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Reflecting on his Herzing experience, Gonzalez emphasizes how the university shaped both his professional and personal growth.
"My time at Herzing University planted valuable life lessons that guided me beyond my academic career," he shares.
The emphasis on community and support taught him the importance of collaboration and relationship building, skills that prove invaluable in his leadership role today.
The diverse student body at Herzing also left a lasting impression.
"Being part of such a diverse student body has expanded my horizons, teaching me the value of empathy and understanding," says Gonzalez. "This experience has reaffirmed the importance of inclusivity and open-mindedness, qualities I carry into my professional life."
Giving Back to the Community
Today, Gonzalez continues to serve his community both through his role at the sheriff's office and as an active member of VFW Post 1865 in Kenosha. His journey from student to law enforcement leader exemplifies Herzing University's mission of empowering students through career-focused education.
Advice for Future Students
Drawing from his experience, Gonzalez offers valuable advice for current and prospective Herzing students:
● "Engage with the community and build relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff."
● "Don't hesitate to utilize resources like tutoring and career services."
● "Look for opportunities for practical learning."
● "Stay open to learning from diverse perspectives."
● "Be resilient – embrace setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow."