On March 24, 2024, Wheaton Chief of Police Princeton J. Youker announced that Deputy Chief Ryan Conway has graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 15. Deputy Chief Conway is one of only several officers in the department’s history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, less than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
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.
The 289th session consisted of 197 law enforcement officers who graduated today from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 289th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 23 countries, four military organizations, and five federal civilian organizations.
“Our department’s success has been a combination of careful preparation meeting opportunity,” Chief Youker said. “Education, professional development of staff, and promotion from within the department have been critical to meeting the needs of the community and adapting to the changing landscape of law enforcement. Deputy Chief Conway is proof positive of the success of our department’s human capital planning. I am proud of his accomplishment. His drive to improve, dedication and leadership will serve well the future of our organization.“
Deputy Chief Conway is a seasoned law enforcement professional with over 19 years of dedicated service within the Wheaton Police Department. Throughout his extensive tenure, he has held diverse roles, showcasing his versatility and commitment to upholding public safety.
His journey in law enforcement began with zeal, serving in various capacities such as a narcotics investigator, SWAT team member, and Field Training Officer. In recognition of his exemplary service and leadership qualities, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2014. Continuing to excel in his career, he assumed the role of Lieutenant from 2018 to 2022, where he demonstrated adeptness in managing operations and fostering team cohesion.
Currently, he serves as the Deputy Chief of the Operations Division, where he oversees the largest and most prominent section of the department. His responsibilities include managing patrol officers and community service officers, ensuring the effective delivery of law enforcement services to the Wheaton community.
A true hometown hero, Deputy Chief Conway is deeply rooted in Wheaton, having been a lifelong resident and an alumnus of Wheaton Warrenville South High School. During his high school years, he distinguished himself as a member of two state champion football teams in 1996 and 1998, reflecting his commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Deputy Chief Conway’s dedication to his profession is underscored by his academic achievements. He holds an Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the College of DuPage, a Bachelor of Science degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University, and a Master of Science degree in Criminal/Social Justice from Lewis University.
Beyond his professional duties, Deputy Chief Conway is deeply passionate about school safety within the Wheaton community. He has been instrumental in championing various safety initiatives, including the ALICE Program (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) and the DARE Program, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring the well-being of students and educators.
In his leisure time, Deputy Chief Conway finds solace and joy in spending quality moments with his wife and daughter, cherishing the invaluable time spent with his loved ones.
Deputy Chief Conway's unwavering dedication to law enforcement, coupled with his commitment to community safety and engagement, continues to make a profound impact on the Wheaton community.
About The Wheaton Police Department
The Wheaton Police Department is an organization comprised of people of integrity, committed to providing quality police service to its community in an honest, fair, professional, and courteous manner. We will focus on forging a partnership with the community based on mutual trust, confidence, commitment, and communication to maintain and improve the quality of life and promote the safety and welfare of our citizens. The members of this agency pledge collectively and individually to grow, develop and engage in reassessment to meet the current and future problems and challenges of our community. The Wheaton Police Department exists to meet the City’s objectives for the safety and wellbeing of its residents. This mission is accomplished through people and knowledge, our most important resources.
About the FBI National Academy
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 many of the courses offered. A total of 54,985 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.