Transforming Public Safety: How New Blue Fosters Police-Community Collaboration

In an era where public safety is a growing concern, innovative approaches are necessary to foster trust between law enforcement and communities. Enter New Blue, a pioneering national fellowship that bridges the gap between police officers and the communities they serve, creating sustainable solutions designed to enhance public safety dynamics.

A New Approach to Policing

Founded in 2020, New Blue serves as an incubator for collaborative action, initiating partnerships between officers and community members. Through its fellowship program, known as the New Blue-UVA Batten Fellowship, participants from various ranks within the police force work hand in hand with citizens to address the pressing issues faced within the justice system. This initiative not only focuses on reforming law enforcement practices but also aims at rebuilding the fabric of community trust, which is essential for effective policing.

Larry Snelling, the Police Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, highlighted the refreshing approach of New Blue at the program's 2024 convening, noting that the dedication to community rebuilding and safety is a profound step in achieving long-term public safety goals. The program's emphasis on creating a shared vision between law enforcement and community members resonates deeply within the fabric of social responsibility.

Academic and Practical Learning Combined

New Blue distinguishes itself by providing participants with a unique educational experience that merges academic learning with real-world application. Each fellow collaborates with a PhD research team, continually working on innovative solutions that directly apply to their local contexts. This hands-on engagement is complemented by access to potential funding that supports the implementation of proposed initiatives.

Dr. Sheryl Victorian, a Chief of Police in Waco, Texas, and a 2024-2025 fellowship participant, articulates her experience as transformative. She emphasizes how the program empowers law enforcement professionals with the necessary tools to foster a positive transformation within policing. By connecting like-minded individuals, New Blue emphasizes the importance of community collaboration, aiming to enhance perceptions of policing while solidifying trust within the communities served.

Fellows earn a Certificate in Leadership from the University of Virginia's Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy Foundation, further underscoring the academic rigor and professional development integrated within this program.

Networking and Innovation Fostering Hope

Sgt. Meg Hamilton from Madison, Wisconsin, who participated in the 2022 program, commended the networking opportunities offered by New Blue. She noted that in the policing sector, few such fellowship opportunities exist that blend academic rigor with practical goodwill, allowing officers to share their thoughts and collaborate on solutions that can lead to substantial, sustainable change.

A Call for New Participants

Currently, applications for the 2025-2026 cohort of the New Blue-UVA Batten Fellowship are being accepted, with a review process running until March 12, 2025. Police departments and officers interested in initiating positive changes within their communities are encouraged to explore this opportunity by visiting newblue.org/apply.

In conclusion, New Blue exemplifies a forward-thinking initiative that not only addresses the immediate challenges faced by law enforcement but also reshapes the narrative around policing through committed collaboration with communities. Its focus on rebuilding trust and fostering sustainable public safety solutions introduces a fresh paradigm in the landscape of law enforcement today.