Flight Simulators

One of the greatest lessons Steve has learned over the years as a police officer is the importance of emotional intelligence. “I realized that knowing what to say, how to say it, and when to say it (or shut up) is critical to success, not just in law enforcement. In addition, you have to effectively deal with others if you want to be truly successful.” When asked about being a police officer in St. Mary’s County, where he often encounters someone he knows, he has turned certain situations into an advantage or learning moment. “I have been in some interesting cases over the years, and in each, I try to find an opportunity to try and have a positive impact. For example, if it’s a speeding ticket for a young adult, I’ve found calling the parents is a great way to change driver behavior. But, conversely, I’ve called adults who have elderly parents who should have their driving privileges checked.” As deputy sheriff, Steve interacted with people in the worst moments of their lives or when they were angry, confused and vulnerable, which he views as a great privilege. “I always try to give people my absolute attention and maximum effort to offer sound advice, provide calm, help them problem solve, or simply listen.” Over the years, Steve has built trust within our community and with those he serves each day. When a stressful situation occurs, he says, “I pray for calm and grace in those situations and rely on my experience and training.” Steve is currently the commander of the Special Operations Division of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. He has extensive experience in law enforcement, serving in various positions over the past quarter of a century. Steve is most grateful for the men and women he serves with each day. “Our officers strive each day to provide equitable, caring service, treat others respectfully and professionally, and serve alongside fellow police officers with confidence to protect the people of this county,” he said. Back in September, Steve attended the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), a Police Executive Research Forum program that provides senior police executives with intensive training in the latest management concepts and practices used in business and government. The program also features discussions of the most challenging issues facing law enforcement executives today. The world-renowned SMIP cadre of instructors represented police leadership across the country. As a result, Steve is confident the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and all of the people serving today are ready to adapt to the changing landscape of policing and meet the challenges facing us in the 21st century. On a personal note, Steve considers himself the luckiest person in the world to have been born in this country, to his family, and most of all, to have met and married his wife, Faith. He has two sons, Trent ’15 and Clay.

In addition, Steve’s older brother, Jeff, graduated in 1984. Unfortunately, Steve’s best friend, Kevin Glynn, a member of the Class of 1985, passed away far too early. Kevin passed away from cancer —“It was quick but brutal.” Kevin’s devoted mother, Betsy, gave Steve her blessing to place Kevin’s ashes in the Irish Sea. “We had always planned to travel to Ireland together. In the end, we did.” Steve credits his education at SMR with providing him a sound foundation for furthering his education and faith life. “The friendships I forged while a student profoundly affected the person I am today.” Steve is a history buff and loves to travel, with Europe as his favorite destination. “It’s a great experience to visit different places with diverse cultures. I’ve been so fortunate to travel all over this country and around the world. Travel has confirmed that my way isn’t the only way or even the best way. There’s a big, beautiful world out there to see, and human beings are the same wherever you go.”

Voting in the St. Mary’s County primary election ends July 19. If Steve wins the Republican nomination for sheriff, he’ll advance to the general election Nov. 8.

Steve with his co-worker and best buddy, Rob Russell ’85