The first female in the Columbia Police Department’s history has graduated from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Captain Cynthia Waggoner Metro Region Captain 291st Session – FBI National Academy Graduate
Captain Cynthia Waggoner who has served with the Columbia Police Department (CPD) since 2005 was among 254 graduates of the 291st session of the FBI’s National Academy’s (NA). FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at last week’s ceremony in Virginia.
The session consisted of fellow women and men representing law enforcement agencies and military organizations from 47 states, the District of Columbia, and Guam.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the NA offers 10 weeks of advanced leadership, communication, and fitness training. Those accepted into the program must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend.
Captain Waggoner’s Biography:
Waggoner is the Captain of Metro Region, which encompasses the Vista hospitality district, Main Street corridor, Finlay Park, and several communities including Arsenal Hill and Booker Washington Heights.
During her 19-year career with CPD, Waggoner has been assigned to:
Metro Region Patrol
Metro Region Lieutenant
Metro Region Community Response Team (CRT)
South Region Patrol
East Region Patrol
K-9 Unit as the first female certified canine trainer and K-9 Corporal
Named Rookie of the Year in 2006
Awarded the Medal of Valor in 2020
Additionally, Captain Waggoner received the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) LEEDA Trilogy Award; an award is given to select officers who complete FBI supervisor, commander, and executive leader training courses.
She is also a member of the National Association of Women in Law Enforcement Executives and attended the International Association of Chiefs of Police Leadership Conference. Waggoner graduated from the Custom Canine Unlimited Trainer’s Course in Gainesville, Georgia.
Waggoner holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina.