Icons | Think Tanks Series | Ben Haiman, The Center for Public Safety and Justice

In this engaging podcast series hosted by Thomas Canavan, the Executive Director of the National Law Enforcement Museum, we examine the vital role that law enforcement think tanks and policy centers play in shaping contemporary policing practices. Each episode features in-depth interviews with leading experts in the field, exploring their insights, research, and the innovative strategies they advocate to enhance public safety and community engagement.Ben, a seasoned professional with backgrounds in mathematics and law enforcement, shared his journey from aspiring high school math teacher to Executive Director of the Center for Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. His law enforcement career began at the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC, where he successfully streamlined the recruitment process, reducing hiring time from 18 months to just over three. Over the years, he has held various influential roles, including serving on the Homeland Security Advisory Council and volunteering as a reserve police officer. Committed to continuous learning, Ben pursued multiple advanced degrees and participated in international law enforcement exchanges to broaden his perspective and expertise.At UVA, Ben leads a center focused on advancing public safety through education, research, and collaboration. The center offers graduate and upcoming undergraduate programs, hosts speaker series, and connects law enforcement leaders nationwide and globally. His leadership emphasizes honest dialogue, sharing of best practices, and fostering diverse perspectives in policing. With an advisory board of seasoned public safety professionals, the center addresses key issues like risk management and leadership development. Ben remains passionate about supporting law enforcement professionals and encouraging individuals from all backgrounds to pursue careers in public safety, stressing the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and community-focused leadership.View the Museum's Public Program page to learn more about each participant.https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/