Clemson University Police Department (CUPD) Captain Courtney Evans graduated from the second cohort of the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety (EPPS) program at the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law on Friday, May 9.
“Graduating from the EPPS Program is an incredible honor and a milestone that I believe will have a lasting impact on my professional and personal growth,” Evans said. “This program was truly unlike any other leadership or law enforcement course I have attended — it was both challenging and deeply impactful.
Evans is the second CUPD officer to complete the program, following Lt. Cortney Wright, who graduated from the first cohort earlier this year. The program, which hosted its first cohort beginning in the Fall of 2023, integrates police, researchers and communities to meet contemporary challenges, advance the police profession and improve public safety outcomes for all communities.
“Being part of the second cohort made the experience even more special, providing the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with the staff and instructional team to help fine-tune and continue building a program that will not only strengthen law enforcement leadership across South Carolina, but also create a ripple effect nationwide,” said Evans. “It has been one of the most rewarding leadership development opportunities of my career.”
This intensive 18-month program is comprised of senior law enforcement leaders from across the state who were selected through a highly competitive application process. Participants in the EPPS program are immersed in a rigorous academic and practical learning environment focused on advancing the police profession in South Carolina by providing robust training, rigorous research and technical assistance to enhance the delivery of public safety services.
“Graduation from the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety program is a high honor and accomplishment in Captain Evans’ long and distinguished career with the Clemson University Police Department,” said Interim CUPD Chief Christopher Harrington. “Her leadership at CUPD and across the Clemson University enterprise is a testament to her collaboration and engagement with key stakeholders and community leaders. Through EPPS, she has expanded her influence and relationships across the State of South Carolina, further enhancing the ability for CUPD to fulfill its mission of enhancing safety, reducing risk and preventing harm.”
For Evans, the opportunity to build relationships with a diverse group of law enforcement leaders in the state and each bring their unique perspectives to the program was a valuable part of her experience.
“One of the most impactful aspects of the EPPS Program was the opportunity to work alongside leaders from across the state — representing large and small agencies, municipal departments, state agencies and sheriff’s offices,” she said. “Building relationships over the course of 18 months with such a diverse and accomplished group was incredibly meaningful.
“What made the experience truly stand out was not just the camaraderie, but our shared willingness to challenge each other’s ideas and perspectives through authentic, honest and respectful discussions. During those discussions, we recognized that while each of our communities faces unique challenges, we also share many common experiences — and by working together, we can collaborate on solutions that make all of our communities safer and healthier.”
Evans says her time in the program has not only strengthened her as a leader but also strengthened her ties with partners in other areas of the state, allowing the department to better support Clemson University locations throughout South Carolina.
“My experience with the EPPS Program not only contributed to my growth as a leader but also strengthened CUPD’s ability to support Clemson University properties across the state,” she said. “The relationships built through EPPS with exceptional law enforcement leaders from all corners of South Carolina have created a network of collaboration that is invaluable.
“Knowing that I can pick up the phone in Clemson and connect directly with a trusted leader in the Lowcountry — or anywhere else in the state — to assist with an issue impacting one of our properties is a resource that will continue to benefit CUPD and the broader Clemson community for years to come.”
Visit the EPPS program website to learn more about this program.
