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SCDNR News

SCDNR Lieutenant Graduates from FBI National Academy

June 06, 2025

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) announces that Lieutenant William “Brady” Branham has graduated as a member of the 294th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on June 5th, 2025. Nationally, fewer than one percent of law enforcement officers have the opportunity to attend the National Academy program.

Internationally recognized for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced training in communication, leadership and fitness. Participants must have a proven record as professionals within their respective agencies to attend.

By graduating from the National Academy, Lieutenant Branham joins an international fraternity of law enforcement officers who have demonstrated the exceptional leadership, knowledge and skills required to lead local law enforcement agencies into the future. Lt. Branham is the fifth in department history to complete this prestigious program.

The 294th session of the National Academy consisted of 239 law enforcement officers from 48 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of agencies from 14 countries, six military organizations and four federal civilian organizations.

Lieutenant Branham has been a law enforcement officer for 18 years with SCDNR. He previously served in Region 2 as a field officer and First Sergeant and is currently assigned as the Lieutenant over our Special Operations Unit.

About the FBI National Academy

FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide training at the National Academy. Many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits many of the courses offered. A total of 56,180 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.