#United States #Washington #Youth Mentorship #National PAL #Dr. Coan

National Police Athletic League Welcomes Dr. Stephen M. Coan

On January 15, 2026, the National Police Athletic/Activities League (National PAL) Board of Directors announced the appointment of Dr. Stephen M. Coan as President and Chief Executive Officer. Known for his extensive experience in the non-profit sector, Dr. Coan is expected to further the organization’s mission of connecting law enforcement with youth to prevent juvenile crime and violence.

A Proven Leader

Dr. Coan has a noteworthy track record within National PAL, having previously served as the executive director and chief operating officer. His dedication to modernizing governance and operations has been instrumental since he joined the leadership team in 2024. He has continuously worked alongside over 300 PAL chapters affiliated with police departments across the United States, ensuring that the organization meets the unique needs of its local populations.

Kenny Ragland, the interim chair of the Board and executive director of Henrico, VA's PAL chapter, demonstrated confidence in Dr. Coan's abilities, affirming that his understanding of the organization and its chapters makes him the perfect fit for this transformative role. Dr. Coan's focus on improving youth engagement through direct relationships with law enforcement is expected to yield significant benefits for communities nationwide.

A Mission-Centric Approach

Under Dr. Coan’s leadership, National PAL aims to bolster its initiatives designed to nurture positive youth engagement. The organization promotes various programs that cover essential areas such as sports, wellness, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). Furthermore, new initiatives to promote personal growth and resiliency are in the pipeline, alongside partnerships with NFL FLAG and other corporate entities focused on hands-on STEAM experiences for children.

Reflecting on his new responsibilities, Dr. Coan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work collaboratively with law enforcement across the nation. He articulated the critical nature of the PAL mission, especially in instances of increasing youth involvement in cyber-related crimes. His commitment to empowering officers and PAL staff is aimed at uplifting the most vulnerable populations in society.

Esteemed Backing

Dr. Coan's appointment has garnered praise from several law enforcement leaders, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and trust between police officers and the communities they serve. William J. Bratton, former commissioner of both New York and Boston Police Departments, highlighted that success in policing relies heavily on building genuine relationships with young people. He believes Dr. Coan is well-equipped to strengthen these connections, thus enabling safer communities.

His predecessor’s sentiments were echoed by former Boston Police Commissioner William G. Gross, who noted that neighborhoods where police engage with youth programs experience a decrease in juvenile crime. Dr. Coan’s leadership is expected to be a pivotal force in promoting this community-centric approach.

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Coan's previous roles have given him profound insight into effective mentoring, connecting law enforcement with youth, and creating educational pathways for at-risk children. He has also served in significant capacities within higher education, showing a diverse skill set that will undoubtedly enhance his effectiveness in the role.

As a member of both the New England Commission for Higher Education and the Police Commissioner Association of Connecticut, Dr. Coan remains actively engaged with the educational and law enforcement sectors, aligning well with PAL’s objectives.

Conclusion

Dr. Stephen M. Coan’s leadership signifies an exciting new chapter for the National Police Athletic/Activities League. With his experience and vision, there is renewed hope for a brighter future, not just for the organization, but also for countless young lives that stand to benefit from his guidance. As National PAL continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, the commitment to fostering young people's growth through community and law enforcement connections remains paramount.