Coach Sgro continues to serve as Police Academy Instructor
- Success Manager
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Since April 2022, Coach Michael Sgro has served as an instructor at the Syracuse Police Academy, focusing on developing recruits’ emotional intelligence—specifically in emotional management, empathy, and relationship-building skills.
Coach Sgro first approached the Syracuse Police Department in late 2021 with a proposal to integrate emotional intelligence training into the academy’s curriculum. His goal: to better equip every new officer in the region with the emotional and interpersonal competencies essential for effective work within the workplace.
The first cohort to complete the program demonstrated an overall 4–11 point increase in emotional intelligence. Following a positive review by the police chief and deputy chiefs, the department petitioned Syracuse City Hall for funding to continue the initiative. With unanimous support from the city council, the program was renewed.
The second cohort, graduating in January 2023, achieved average EI gains of 5–13 points. Notably, the academy’s Leadership Award that year went to the recruit with the highest emotional intelligence score. The class also showed the strongest growth in empathy—an area that directly supports community trust and officer wellness.
Now completing instruction for his seventh cohort, Coach Sgro continues to advance emotional intelligence development within the Syracuse Police Department (and regional departments) and aims to expand his work to other law enforcement entities across the the state/nation.
“Every essential worker in America should have high emotional intelligence,” says Coach Sgro. “High EI facilitates the performance skills necessary for competitive work and greater responsibility. Ultimately, serving my community is an honor. Helping those who help us every day gives me hope that we’ll continue to solve our challenges through collaboration and partnership.”
Officer Duester, a program graduate, reflects on the training’s impact:
“Michael is a wealth of knowledge. My biggest takeaway from his program is to remain humble, never be afraid to ask for help, and stay true to who you are. His program has allowed me to recognize my full potential and grow to be the best version of myself.”
