Mark D. Gilbert

The Virginia Community Policing Institute is pleased to recognize Lieutenant Mark D. Gilbert of the Martinsville Police Department as the 2003 Instructor of the Year. The institute is supported by numerous talented instructors that instruct across the commonwealth on behalf of VCPI.

The criteria for the Instructor of the Year award includes presenting many hours of instruction within one calendar year, developing or assisting in the development of VCPI course curriculum, and receiving high ratings on student evaluations. In 2003, Mark provided the highest number of instructing hours among VCPI’s instructor cadre, conducting 344 hours of training in classrooms across Virginia. His students routinely applaud his skilled training methods and the extraordinary balance between the theoretical and practical application of his Advanced Search & Seizure and Biased-Based Policing curricula.

In addition to his outstanding presentation style and content, Mark has also used his experience and skill to assist VCPI in curriculum development for both the Advanced Search & Seizure and Biased-Based Policing courses.

Mark has a long history of instruction and curriculum development, teaching law-enforcement officers since 1995. In 1998, Mark provided research and organization that has provided the foundation of the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) legal lesson plans currently used in today’s law-enforcement academies.

Mark received his A.A.S. degree from Patrick Henry Community College and graduated from the New River Criminal Justice Academy, graduating number one in basic law-enforcement class. Mark began his career as a law-enforcement officer in 1990, earning numerous certifications and awards along his path.

VCPI appreciates and applauds Mark’s dedication and commitment to the institution through his instruction and curriculum development.

Reactions from Lt. Gilbert’s Students:

"Hands down, I felt that Mark did an excellent job on his presentation and body of work in this class. Excellent commentary, knowledge of the subjects and supporting video and PC media. I thoroughly enjoyed this last class in my last 40-hour in-service of my 25 year career."

“Best class I’ve had.”

“Very informing class by an instructor who kept your attention by presenting the information in a way you could use it in your everyday work. I would recommend the class to all officers and especially feel the recruits should have it.”

“Your approach to the class was outstanding, you are a human being not just an officer.”