Alumnus Combines Criminal Justice Experience With Education and Discusses His Inspiration for Becoming a Police Officer Alumni Profile
Meet Frederick Livingston
- Job Title & Employer
- Police Officer, Edgewood Borough Police Department
- Majors/Programs
- Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration-M.S.
- Graduation
- 2015, 2018
- Hometown
- Pittsburgh, Pa. (Homewood)
- High School
- Taylor Allderdice High School
- Now Living In
- Jefferson Hills, Pa.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Traveling, sports, reading and cooking
"Officer Livingston's education has opened his eyes to a whole new world of what it means to 'Protect and Serve.' It is innovative thinkers like him who will carry law enforcement into the future. His education has also helped him to be more vocal about law enforcement and some of the problems that exist in this career field. Thanks to Point Park University, and Officer Livingston for achieving both a bachelor's and master's degree, he will continue to have such a positive influence on so many people."
"I have been able to use the knowledge I gained attending Point Park University in every aspect of my professional career from organizational management, administration and ethics to economics, policy and organizational behavior ... Every class brought out new insights and sometimes timely — and spirited — conversations in which we all learned from each other in the end."
What inspired you to become a police officer?
Growing up in the inner city of Pittsburgh, I witnessed poor choices made by friends that often would involve negative police interaction. I often sat in front of my house as patrol cars drove past, envisioning myself behind the wheel. As time went on, it became apparent to me that being in a position to help people in distress, while also educating them in the process, was what I wanted to do.
My sixth grade teacher, Ms. Lilian Green, pulled me aside one day and said, “You are going to do great things in life because you aspire to lead not follow." I never forgot those words.
I have overcome many obstacles and leaped over many hurdles to become a police officer. Growing up in a predominantly African-American community, many of my friends, neighbors and family members were not supportive of me joining the ranks of law enforcement. Their lack of respect and knowledge to understanding the differences and indifferences is what inspired me most to become a police officer.
Everyone has a voice and deserves to be heard. As a police officer, it is my responsibility to ensure that this important element of the job is implemented to the fullest. I believe every conversation I have had with men and women along the way, I have gained a piece of information that was stored and later used to get me where I am today. However, I continue to work hard and look forward to what the future holds.
What factors made you choose both our B.S. in criminal justice and M.S. in criminal justice administration programs?
The personal and professional hands-on approach by the professors at Point Park University inspired me the most to enroll in both the B.S. in criminal justice and M.S. in criminal justice administration programs. The faculty's knowledge and expertise gained from working in the field, combined with the educational components, really enhanced the core learning objectives in the classroom.
As a certified police officer, the programs opened my eyes on many issues. From engaging discussions led by our professors to timely, intense research papers, all of the classes were designed to enhance our knowledge of the criminal justice system.
Also, the flexible class scheduling with all-day Saturday classes allowed me to pursue my education while maintaining my professional career. I would love to teach criminal justice one day and obtaining my master's degree in criminal justice administration has put me on the path to accomplishing that goal. Combining my practical experience with the formal educational component has given me the tools necessary to rise in a command position of choice moving forward.
As a police officer, how did your criminal justice classes and the Point Park faculty impact you?
I have been able to use the knowledge I gained attending Point Park University in every aspect of my professional career from organizational management, administration and ethics to economics, policy and organizational behavior. Each subject relates to current issues of events today that I use to develop key strategies on the job. Every class brought out new insights and sometimes timely — and spirited — conversations in which we all learned from each other in the end.
A majority of the professors displayed a deep knowledge and understanding for the criminal justice subjects taught. However, Professor Richard Linzer, impacted me the most with his extreme professionalism, intelligence and desire for perfection. He inspired me to be my best and would accept nothing less from me.
Professor Linzer, I thank you for your time and effort, during both undergrad and graduate school. My education has opened the door for me to new heights that were made possible by your commitment to excellence. Having to present countless presentations has allowed me to grow and educate the public on various topics in times of need.
What are your favorite Point Park memories?
My favorite memory was presenting my capstone research project on “Violence in American Schools: Characteristics of a School Shooter." I also enjoyed the class discussions after readings and analyzing topics surrounding current events. Of course, the graduation ceremony was memorable, too, since this is when you realize your hard work and sacrifices have paid off.
What advice do you have for our students in the Department of Criminal Justice and Intelligence Studies?
Don’t let anything stop you from obtaining your education. Challenge yourself with research, writing and presenting information that will inspire you to continue reaching. The professors at Point Park will give you everything you need to excel in exchange for 100% commitment.