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Spotlights » Blaine Koops, '76
For the sheriff of Allegan County, Grand Valley State University is a family affair. Blaine Koops graduated in 1976 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. His wife earned her master's degree in education and his oldest daughter is attending Grand Valley.
"Grand Valley has a real special place in my heart," said Koops. "The criminal justice program prepared me for those first steps necessary to be successful."
Koops worked for the Holland Police Department and in 1986 was named "Police Officer of the Year." In 1987, he was hired by Grand Valley to serve as director of Criminal Justice Training. After two years, Koops returned to the Holland Police Department where he was promoted to the rank of captain, serving as the commander of the Administrative Services Division.
His career success continued as he was accepted into and graduated from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy in Virginia. Koops waited three years to attend; the normal wait time is five to seven years. The extensive three-month training involved both academic and physical challenges.
"I received world-class training, running 10 miles a day and facing a tough obstacle course," he said. "I was happy to conquer the yellow brick road."
The yellow brick road is an extremely challenging part of the obstacle course that not everyone can complete. Koops has a yellow brick on his desk reminding him of his conquest.
Koops said he enjoys staying connected to Grand Valley. He serves as an adjunct professor for Grand Valley's School of Criminal Justice, teaching the art and power of team negotiations and problem solving within the community.
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