Each fall Dalhousie University's Police Leadership Program will announce the winner of the annual Sgt. Bruce MacPhail Award for Academic Excellence. This award represents the attributes, ethics and self-confidence Sgt. Bruce MacPhail demonstrated in his own personal life to attain personal and professional success. The award was established in 2001 by Phyllis MacPhail in memory of her son, and commemorates his dedication to life-long learning in the field of law enforcement. Sgt. MacPhail completed the Certificate in Police Leadership, Supervisory Skills in 2000 and was the first Certified Police Coach in the program.
He began his career with the Amherst Police Department in Nova Scotia, then in 1982 became one of the first police officers with the newly formed Bedford Town Police. He continued on with Halifax Regional Police after amalgamation, eventually heading up their first Auto Theft Unit. His other passion was car racing. He was co-owner of Kartbahn Racing Halifax and Breakers Halifax. He was well known in formula racing circles and was also an honorary member of the Atlantic Sports Car Club. Sgt. Bruce MacPhail passed away in June 2001 after a short and courageous battle with cancer.
The award will be presented to the municipal police officer who, in the past academic year, has achieved the highest overall average in a concentration certificate. Certificates earned can be in either administration, supervisory skills, service delivery or law and justice.
Students in the Police Leadership Program who have graduated with a "concentration" Certificate in the current academic year are automatically eligible on their marks. No need to apply.
Once all grades are recorded in the spring, all student grades will be looked at to determine who had the highest academic average in the past academic year.
Recipients of the award will receive a commemorative plaque, and a $500 cash award. The winner will be notified by staff at the College of Continuing Education, and his/her success will be announced in Blue Line magazine.
