BOONTON — Captain Christopher Petonak of the Town of Boonton Police Department was nominated, accepted, and successfully graduated from the 295th session of the FBI National Academy on September 4, 2025. During the 10-week program, he completed advanced coursework in Wellness and Fitness; Leading At-Risk Employees; Leadership, Culture, and Influence; Critical Incident and Crisis Negotiations; Managing the Law Enforcement Image; and Effective Leadership in Responding to Drug Investigations. Each course emphasized collaboration and engagement with fellow law enforcement leaders, shaping a well-rounded philosophy of leadership that Captain Petonak now brings back to the Town of Boonton.
Captain Petonak extends his sincere gratitude to the Town of Boonton for granting him the opportunity to participate in this once in a lifetime course of instruction. He thanks the Public Safety Director, Command Staff, and the dedicated officers of the Boonton Police Department for continuing the law enforcement mission at home during his leave. He is also deeply appreciative of his wife, family, and friends for their unwavering support in keeping the home front safe and well.
Two-hundred and fifty-four law enforcement officers graduated today from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 295th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 49 states and the District of Columbia. The class included 22 members of law enforcement agencies from 20 countries, 10 members of six military organizations, and four members of federal civilian organizations.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
FBI Director Kash Patel delivered remarks at the ceremony. Class spokesperson Benjamen Adams from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala, FL, represented the graduating officers.
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered.
A total of 56,434 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
