Saturday, November 30, 2024

NYPD Sergeants: Leading Through a National Crisis ©

It was my privilege to continue my initiative The NYPD: Leading Through a National Crisis © on November 29, 2024 with my presentation to the department's 75 newly promoted sergeants.

Today’s presentation was titled NYPD Sergeants: Leading Through a National Crisis ©. It took place at their state-of-the-art police academy in Queens, New York.

The presentation emphasized the necessity of serving as ethical protector's, and understanding the concept of the wounded healer.

We spotlighted topics critical to American law enforcement. These are principled leadership, building morale, emotional resilience, and suicide prevention.

It was truly an honor to serve these outstanding men and women, and I am inspired by their commitment to protect and serve. Before continuing, a note of appreciation to NYPD Inspector Mark Wachter, Commanding Officer of the Health and Wellness Section for his invitation to speak, and the hospitality of all at the police academy.

Mental Health Resources for NYPD Members

Challenging Times for American Law Enforcement

My presentation began by addressing the following:

· The challenging times for law enforcement throughout America, with alarming levels of stress, wounded morale, senseless acts of violence, and suicide.

· The NYPD is not immune to these challenges. Each of us must be catalysts of change to ignite a culture of respect, affirmation, and gratitude.

· The necessity of principled leadership, morale enhancement, emotional resilience, and suicide prevention.

· The paramount mandate of inspiring ethical protectors; personified by character, empathy, and compassion for others.

· A laser-focused goal of inspiring a culture that values the physical, spiritual, and mental well-being of every member of the NYPD.

The Wounded Healer

My remarks continued with my commentary on the wisdom from the 1979 book The Wounded Healer© by Henri Nouwen.

The commentary addressed the following excerpts (some of which are paraphrased):

· “When our wounds cease to be a source of shame, and become a source of healing, we have become wounded healers.”

· “Nobody escapes being wounded. We are all wounded people, whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.”

· “Our service will not be perceived as authentic, unless it comes from a heart wounded by the suffering we encounter in others.”

· “The main question is not ‘How can we hide our wounds?’ so we don’t have to be embarrassed, but ‘How can we put our woundedness in the service of others?”

· “To enter into solidarity with a suffering person does not mean that we have to talk with that person about our own suffering. We must be sympathetic listeners as speaking about our own pain is seldom helpful for someone who is in pain.”

· “A wounded healer is someone who can listen [and empathize] to a person in pain without having to speak about his or her own wounds.”

· “When we have experienced pain, we can listen with great attentiveness and compassion to another in pain without spotlighting our own wounds.”

· “Mostly, it is better not to direct a suffering person’s attention to ourselves. We have to trust that our own damaged wounds will allow us to listen to others with our whole being. The empathetic listening leads to healing."

The presentation focused on empowering the NYPD sergeants to be ethical protectors and wounded healers.

These qualities are personified by character, empathy, and compassion for others.

My goal is to provide the tools to better manage stress and emotional challenges, inherent not only with the NYPD, but law enforcement nationwide.

“I pray that they listen and learn.

“Your talks are not just another class they must attend, but rather a step to survival.

“Its not about just looking to prevent suicide among cops, but about prevention of suicide for themselves as well.”

NYPD Detective Kathy Burke retd., Police Self Support Group Vice President

Ethical Protectors / Wounded Healers Approach

As a practitioner for over 40 years of the world-renowned psychiatrist, Dr. Conrad Baars, I highlighted his pedagogy which includes the following:

· Only affirmed individuals, not necessarily mental health doctors or therapists, with sound emotional fortitude can be catalysts of compassion and healing.

· These individuals instill healing for unaffirmed personalities an depravation disorders.

· Affirmation provides a transformative power by recognizing, appreciating, and igniting qualities of individuals who will heal and thrive.

· This is not a technique or certification. Rather, it is only possible by those who are emotionally solid and affirmed.

The Sentinel of the Unknown Soldier

Inspired by the honor guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., I encouraged the sergeants to apply these words from the sentinels creed to their NYPD profession:

“My dedication to this sacred duty is total and wholehearted. In the responsibility bestowed upon me, never will I falter.”

Credos of the NYPD Sergeant

“There is no shortage of credos by which NYPD Sergeants should live and work, but most important of all is to lead by example, be consistent and fair, and let the Officers who depend on you for guidance know that you are as available to them as they are accountable to you.” SBA NYPD

Final Reflections: The Liberation Monument

Surrounded by the significance of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline is the Liberation Monument in Liberty View Park, Jersey City, N.J.

Designed by sculptor Nathan Rapaport, this inspirational statue depicts a World War II American soldier carrying a survivor from a concentration camp.

This image moves the soul to reflect on the values of compassion, character and courage.

A photo of this magnificent monument was shared with the NYPD Sergeants.

It was my sincere hope to inspire them to connect with the great Americans of our history, and uphold their legacy through their privileged NYPD positions.

May the NYPD Sergeants carry the torch of ethical leadership so America is reawakened as a beacon of moral leadership throughout the world.

Related Bove Published Works from the NACOP:

· 21st Century Policing: Issues and Response

· 21st Century American Policing Demands Ethical Leadership

· Police Suicides: Awareness, Compassion, Action

· Safeguarding America’s Protectors: A Community Responsibility

· America’s Law Enforcement Sacrifices Demand Eternal Gratitude

· Igniting 21st Century Ethical Policing: Understanding the Profession

Read: The NYPD: Leading Through a National Crisis ©

NYPD Employee Assistance Unit: Leading Through a National Crisis ©

PS: NYPD Police Self Support Group: Respect, Honor, Resiliency

About Vincent

Vincent J. Bove is a national speaker, author, and confidant on issues critical to America with 325 published works.

His most recent of four books are Reawakening America © and Listen to Their Cries.©

Bove is recipient of the FBI Director's Community Leadership Award, former confidant of players from two world-champion New York Yankee teams, and served as spokesperson for a coalition of Virginia Tech tragedy victim's families.

He has been appointed Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD. In this role he addresses ethical leadership, building morale, emotional resiliency, and suicide prevention at NYPD events, roll calls, and in published works.

Bove has been an author for the National Association of Chiefs of Police for 15 years. He has over 60 published works, and an unprecedented 18 cover stories for their magazine.

Bove served the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association for 20 consecutive years as liaison and chairperson on policing leadership, violence prevention, and public safety issues.

He conducted Leadership Principles: Crisis Planning, Community Partnerships, Violence Prevention © keynotes to safeguard New York City at sites including:

· Museums hosted by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

· Corporations hosted by The New York Stock Exchange

· Hospitals hosted by Rockefeller University

· Properties hosted by The Union Club of New York

· Universities hosted by Columbia University, the New York Athletic Club and Fordham University.

Bove has conducted extensive leadership presentations for the NYPD, FBI, the United States Military Academy, law enforcement, educators, security professionals, and students nationwide. vincentbove.com

“We must all serve as catalysts to protect our workplaces, schools, communities, public spaces, houses of worship, and one another.

Public safety demands leadership, vigilance, and collaboration.

"Security and personal safety demands comprehensive enhancements, on-going training, effective response to warning signs, and building bridges with law enforcement, private security, and every member of the community.” Vincent J Bove

Thank you to all who made my appointment by possible, and authorized me to train, advise and assist members of the NYPD and FDNY:

· NYPD Police Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon for his visionary leadership and confidence in me.

· FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker for his leadership with partnering the FDNY with the NYPD.

· NYPD Executive Staff for their time during our meetings, and brainstorming an action plan for my initiative.

· Chief John Benoit, Director of Personnel for his time with Commissioner Donlon and myself, and the professionalism of his staff during my appointment processing.

· Chief Supervising Surgeon Dr. Eli Kleinman M.D. M.P.H for the conference call with him, and Dr. Lokesh Reddy M.D., Psychiatrist; and for his invitation to speak to the Police Self Support Group (PSSG) on November 14, 2024.

· Inspector Mark Wachter, Commanding Officer of the Health and Wellness Section for developing an actionable plan on my appointment for the Police Commissioner.

· FDNY Lieutenant / Deputy Director Andrew Kane, Bureau of Health Services / Counseling Unit for coordinating fire house visits, and my keynote to the FDNY Peer Support Group.

· PSSG Training Coordinator Peter Pallos for his admirable dedication to assisting others, and his invitation to speak at various events.

· NYPD legal matters, POPPA, the New York City Police Foundation, and many NYPD officials whom made my appointment possible after our PC conference room collaboration.

· NYPD Deputy Chief Richie Taylor for his support of my appointment and dedication to his profession.

In particular, it is imperative to express my admiration for all NYPD and FDNY personnel dedicated to protecting our communities, and to the NYPD Police Self Support Group and NYPD and FDNY Peer Support Groups for their inspiring commitment to help their colleagues.

Photos:

NYPD newly appointed 75 sergeants during Nov. 2024 group photo during Vincent J. Bove presentation at police academy, Nov. 29, 2024 (Courtesy RALLC)
New NYPD sergeants, police academy class, Nov. 29, 2024. (RALLC / Vincent J. Bove)
NYPD Employee Assistance Unit Poster, police academy. (Credit NYPD)
The Wounded Healer© PPT slide, Nov. 29, 2024 Bove presentation.
The Liberation Monument, Jersey City, NJ. (RALLC / Vincent J. Bove)

Labels: Education, Events, Law Enforcement, Leadership, Mental Health, NYPD, Patriotism, Policing

Monday, November 25, 2024

NYPD Employee Assistance Unit: Leading Through a National Crisis ©

Today, I was privileged to deliver my first official presentation since my appointment as NYPD Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker.

The presentation took place at the NYPD’s state-of-the-art police academy in College Point, Queens.

Gratitude

Before continuing, it is essential to express gratitude for the NYPD officials whom made my appointment possible.

· Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon for his visionary leadership and confidence in me.

· NYPD Executive Staff for their time during our meetings, and brainstorming an action plan for my initiative.

· Chief John Benoit, Director of Personnel for his time with Commissioner Donlon and myself, and the professionalism of his staff during my appointment processing.

· Chief Supervising Surgeon Dr. Eli Kleinman M.D. M.P.H for his time during my conference call with him and Dr. Lokesh Reddy M.D., Psychiatrist; and for his invitation for me to speak to the Police Self Support Group (PSSG) on November 14.

· Inspector Mark Wachter, Commanding Officer of the Health and Wellness Section for developing an actionable plan on my appointment for the Police Commissioner.

· PSSG Training Coordinator Peter Pallos for his admirable dedication to assisting others, and his invitation for me to speak today.

· NYPD legal matters, POPPA, the New York City Police Foundation, and many NYPD officials whom made my appointment possible.

· NYPD Deputy Chief Richie Taylor for his support of my appointment and dedication to his profession.

· In particular, it is imperative to express my admiration for all NYPD personnel dedicated to protecting our communities, and to the Police Self Support Group and Peer Support Group for their inspiring commitment to helping their colleagues.

Dr. Stephen Wakschal

Before memorializing my presentation today, it is imperative to note the extraordinary dedication of Dr. Stephen Wakschal.

Dr. Wakschal was the lead instructor for the NYPD Peer Support Group today.

He is a New York State Psychologist with over 40 years’ experience in the field of suicidology, trauma, and law enforcement.

He is also a New York State Trooper PBA Surgeon, a certified grief counselor specialist, and the Clinical Lead for the Northwell Health Finest Program.

Dr. Wakschal representing ConQueR© today, delivered a powerful presentation titled A Suicide Awareness and Intervention Program for Law Enforcement Professionals.

His insights included the following:

· Suicide Prevention Innkeepers

· Why is this training necessary?

· Am I my brother’s keeper?

· Suicide by the Numbers

· The Six Pillars of Police Suicide

· Suicide Myths, Risk Factors

· Early Behavioral Indicators of Suicide

· Early Emotional Indicators of Suicide

· Early Voiced Indicators of Suicide

· The Lethal Equation

· Typical Responses to a Suicidal Person

· Connection Basics / Listening

· Empathy and Acknowledgement

· Why Police Officers Hesitate to Talk About Suicide

· Response Considerations

Dr. Wakschal's insights made it abundantly clear to the Peer Support Group that this knowledge was pivotal for addressing mental health concerns.

Mental Health Resources for NYPD Members

The NYPD: Leading Through a National Crisis ©

My remarks today were titled The NYPD: Leading Through a National Crisis © and I addressed the following:

· The challenging times for law enforcement throughout America, with alarming levels of stress, wounded morale, senseless acts of violence, and suicide.

· The NYPD is not immune to these challenges. Each of us must be catalysts of change to ignite a culture of respect, affirmation, and gratitude.

· The necessity of principled leadership, morale enhancement, emotional resilience, and suicide prevention.

· The paramount mandate of inspiring ethical protectors; personified by character, empathy, and compassion for others.

· A laser-focused goal of inspiring a culture that values the physical, spiritual, and mental well-being of every member of the NYPD.

The Wounded Healer

The commentary addressed the following excerpts (some of which are paraphrased):

· “When our wounds cease to be a source of shame, and become a source of healing, we have become wounded healers.”

· “Nobody escapes being wounded. We are all wounded people, whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.”

· “Our service will not be perceived as authentic, unless it comes from a heart wounded by the suffering we encounter in others.”

· “The main question is not ‘How can we hide our wounds?’ so we don’t have to be embarrassed, but ‘How can we put our woundedness in the service of others?”

· “A wounded healer is someone who can listen [and empathize] to a person in pain without having to speak about his or her own wounds.”

· “When we have experienced pain, we can listen with great attentiveness and compassion to another in pain without spotlighting our own wounds.”

Prevent a Tragedy: See Something, Do Something

Each life is sacred and deserving of respect, support, and encouragement.

The maxim “if you see something do something” is applicable not only to crime prevention, but to protecting the lives of all who serve, and all experiencing emotional trauma.

We must continually have our eyes wide open to warning signs of suicide, and the moral courage to respond.

Before concluding, some wise words from a retired police chief colleague on officer mental health and suicide prevention:

“We rightfully spend a lot of time assessing a recruit’s psychological status.

“However, all officers need to be regularly assessed as their careers and experiences move forward.

“Some agencies order officers to attend PTSD screening for certain incidents.

“A good start, but given the nature of the job and the amount of negativity shown by those who hold the purse strings, screening should be at regular intervals throughout a career.”

Note Well: A Tribute to NYPD Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon

NYPD Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon’s visionary leadership is the catalyst behind this unprecedented initiative. He has already initiated expanding the initiative through an unparalleled partnership with the FDNY Commissioner which began with a conference call with the three of us.

Next on the agenda, a first of its kind police-fire department unity of effort. This will take place at police precincts and fire houses. The initiative will have my unwavering support for the NYPD and FDNY; inspiring ethical leadership, building morale, emotional resilience, and suicide prevention.

Related Bove Published Works from the NACOP:

· 21st Century Policing: Issues and Response

· 21st Century American Policing Demands Ethical Leadership

· Police Suicides: Awareness, Compassion, Action

· SafeguardingAmerica’s Protectors: A Community Responsibility

· America’s Law Enforcement Sacrifices Demand Eternal Gratitude

· Igniting21st Century Ethical Policing: Understanding the Profession

PS: NYPD Police Self Support Group: Respect, Honor, Resiliency

About Vincent

Vincent J. Bove is a national speaker, author, and confidant on issues critical to America with over 325 published works.

Bove is recipient of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award, former confidant of players from two world-champion New York Yankee teams, and served as spokesperson for a coalition of Virginia Tech tragedy victim’s families.

He has been appointed the Honorary Law Enforcement Motivational Speaker by the NYPD; addressing issues of ethical leadership, building morale, emotional resiliency, and suicide prevention.

Bove has been an author for the National Association of Chiefs of Police for 15 years, with over 60 published works, and an unprecedented 18 cover stories for their magazine.

He served the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association for 20 consecutive years as liaison and chairperson on policing leadership, violence prevention, and public safety issues.

Bove conducted Leadership Principles: Crisis Planning, Community Partnerships, Violence Prevention© keynotes to safeguard New York City at sites including:

· Museums hosted by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

· Corporations hosted by The New York Stock Exchange

· Hospitals hosted by Rockefeller University

· Properties hosted by The Union Club of New York

· Universities hosted by Columbia University, the New York Athletic Club and Fordham University.

Bove has conducted extensive leadership presentations for the FBI, the United States Military Academy, law enforcement, educators, security professionals, and students nationwide. vincentbove.com