Brian Avera

Brian Avera is a Lecturer at the School of Public Affairs, San Diego State University (SDSU), within the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts. He holds a Master of Public Administration (3.58 GPA) and Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration (3.51 GPA) from SDSU, alongside other credentials in law enforcement management and leadership. His professional experience spans over 15 years in the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), where he has served as a Lieutenant, Detective Sergeant, and Officer, leading teams in community outreach, internal investigations, and crisis management. He is also a seasoned union leader, having directed the Peace Officers Research Association of California and the San Diego Police Officers Association. Awardees include the SDSU Emerging Leader Award (2019) and multiple commendations for service excellence.

• Education:
  • Master of Public Administration, SDSU (2015)
  • Bachelor of Arts, Public Administration, SDSU (2012)
  • Associate of Science, Administration of Justice, San Diego Community College (2009)

His research interests focus on bridging law enforcement practices with community needs, particularly in homelessness solutions, ethics in criminal justice, and leadership development. He teaches courses on community resources and ethics in criminal justice systems at SDSU. Outside academia, he leads the SDPD’s Homeless Outreach Team and serves as Executive Officer for the Bravo Team, a rapid-response unit for civil unrest. His community service includes roles with Saint Vincent de Paul, the National Latino Peace Officers Association, and the National Marine Corps.

• Awards:
  • SDSU School of Public Affairs Emerging Leader Award (2019)
  • Officer of the Shift (2014)
  • Lifesaving Citation (2011)
  • Commanding Officer’s Citation (2010)
  • 14 Supervisor’s Commendations
• Advising/Grants: No formal student advisees listed, but contributes to curriculum development for POST-certified programs and collaborates with non-profits on housing initiatives.
• Labs/Teams: Leads SDPD’s Homeless Outreach Team and Bravo Team; active in community boards like Saint Vincent de Paul and NLPOA.