معرفی
John Best serves as Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at East Texas Baptist University, having joined as adjunct faculty in Fall 2024 before promotion to his current role in Fall 2025. His academic appointment follows a distinguished 36-year law enforcement career, including 33 years at the Marshall Police Department where he retired as Assistant Chief in 2023, and subsequent service as Operations Director and Chief of Police for Elysian Fields ISD through 2024.
His academic credentials include:
- M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management from Sam Houston State University (2009)
- B.S. in Business Management from LeTourneau University (1998)
Professor Best’s research examines the intersection of criminal justice systems and community welfare, emphasizing leadership in public safety operations and ethical policing practices. His work is deeply informed by field experience in police administration and operational command, with particular focus on protecting vulnerable populations as reflected in his professional motto from Psalm 82:3–4. He integrates practical law enforcement insights into criminal justice pedagogy while advocating for systemic approaches to community safety.
His professional recognitions feature:
- Marshall Police Department’s Certificate of Commendation for Leadership
- Marshall Police Department’s Certificate of Commendation for Meritorious Achievement
- Law Enforcement Merit Award from the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce
- Officer of the Year from the Marshall Police Officers Association
Professor Best teaches criminal justice courses at ETBU, having previously served as Adjunct Instructor in Spring 2017 and during the 2024–2025 academic year. No graduate student advising or research grants are documented in available materials. His professional development includes graduation from both the FBI National Academy and the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT), underscoring his commitment to advanced law enforcement leadership training.
