Profiles

Levin College Profiles

MEET BRENDA BUTLER (BA PUBLIC SAFETY MANAGEMENT ’10)
Brenda Butler
 
Degrees:
  • M.S., Justice Administration, Tiffin University
  • B.A., Public Safety Management, Levin College - Cleveland State University
  • Associate of Arts, Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement, Lakeland Community College
  • Associate of Arts, Criminal Justice: Corrections, Lakeland Community College
Where are you currently residing?
Mentor, OH
Where are you from?
Ashtabula, OH
 
Current Employment:
Position Title: Deputy Director of Advanced Training for the Ohio Attorney General (Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy)

Job Duties: 
  • I am responsible for the management of the northern advanced training center for current Police Officers within the State of Ohio.
  • I supervise Law Enforcement training Instructors and oversee the development and instruction of curriculum.
 
Why did you decide to attend Levin? 
I first attended Levin because it was part of the partnership program with Lakeland Community College. It gave me the ability to attend college when I was unable to do so. Once I started, I fell in love with the college and its programs, and developed a sense of pride and belonging. This led me to continue my education.
 
How did your experience at Levin influence your career path?
My experiences at Levin empowered me to become what I am today. It allowed me to achieve my goals, and gave me the confidence and power I needed to succeed.
 
What's your favorite Levin memory? 
My favorite Levin memory is having the opportunity to finish my degree at the campus and to experience the wonderful students that encompass what CSU really is!
 
What piece of advice do you have for current Levin students? 
The piece of advice I would want to pass on to current Levin students is, “you can... and you will!”
 
What was the most valuable lesson you learned at Levin? 
The most valuable lesson I learned at Levin is I am only restricted by the walls I build. Anything is possible – one step at a time.
 
What inspires you about Northeast Ohio? Why?
I love Northeast Ohio because I was born and raised here. I have a sense of pride that was instilled in me when I grew up. I joined the U.S. Army and met people from all over. When I’ve been to other states and other countries and say I’m from Cleveland, everyone knows where I am from – no matter where in the world I may be!  That is a reputation and a pride I have learned to wear like the medals on my uniform.
 
In your opinion, what’s Northeast Ohio’s best kept secret? 
Northeast Ohio's best kept secret is the beauty found in the changing of the seasons and the beautiful sunsets over Lake Erie.  
 
What’s one thing someone would be surprised to learn about you? 
People would be surprised to learn that I also had a rough road in life as I grew up. My father was an officer who was killed in the line of duty, and my family suffered many hardships after his death. I am living proof that you can be dealt a bad hand in life and overcome and achieve great things and have a great life!  Love you, Dad!
 
What issues are you passionate about/what inspires you? 
I am very passionate not only about teaching law enforcement officers and criminal justice students how to do their jobs, but how to achieve their dreams, overcome obstacles, and live life to the fullest.
 
Who’s your hero and why? 
My heroes have changed throughout the years. As I go through life, I discover another hero to carry me further. Heroes are everywhere. Every person. Every corner you turn. Heroes are people who overcome and excel when others thought they wouldn't. If I had to choose one, I would say it’s my dad. He gave his life so people would have the opportunity to live their lives and achieve their dreams.