Published on May 15, 2026 7:18 am
Last Updated on May 15, 2026 7:19 am
The Effingham Police Department has announced that Sergeant Joshua Douthit has graduated from the prestigious School of Police Staff and Command (SPSC) at Northwestern University Center for Public Safety.
Sergeant Douthit successfully completed the intensive 22-week program held in Evanston, Illinois, from June 2 through November 2, 2025. He was a member of SPSC Class #614, which included seventeen law enforcement professionals from agencies across the country. Since its inception in 1983, the School of Police Staff and Command has graduated more than 25,000 public safety professionals from both national and international agencies.
The School of Police Staff and Command is recognized as one of the premier leadership and management programs for law enforcement professionals. The curriculum challenges students through rigorous coursework, examinations, presentations, projects, and a comprehensive staff study paper. Areas of study include leadership, organizational behavior, employee relations, budgeting and resource allocation, policy development, planning, and human resources.
Effingham City Police say Sergeant Douthit’s successful completion of this program reflects his commitment to professional growth, leadership, and continued service to the community. The knowledge and experience gained through the program will further strengthen the Effingham Police Department’s mission of providing professional, forward-thinking law enforcement services to the residents of Effingham.
Chief Kurt Davis stated, “We are extremely proud of Sergeant Douthit for the dedication and hard work required to complete this nationally recognized program. His commitment to advancing his education and leadership abilities is a direct benefit to both our department and the community we serve.”
Established in 1936, the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety has long been recognized for providing advanced education and professional development opportunities for law enforcement leaders throughout the world.
The Effingham Police Department congratulates Sergeant Douthit on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to the continued leadership and experience he brings to the agency and the community.
