Benjamin A. Kelso

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT BENJAMIN A. KELSO

As the Commander of the San Diego Police Department\'s Neighborhood Services Branch l, I hold a leadership role encompassing a broad spectrum of responsibilities. In my capacity, I lead and supervise Neighborhood Policing Division, Traffic Division, Community and Youth Services as part of the SDPD’s quality of life and community engagement initiatives. My duties also include:• Fostering collaborative partnerships.• Managing high-performing work teams.• Facilitating organizational development.• Overseeing critical incident management.With over 35 years of extensive law enforcement experience, I have undertaken diverse and specialized assignments. These include roles in emergency management, professional standards/internal affairs, domestic violence, crime suppression, gangs, DARE, and academy instructor teaching defensive tactics. Additionally, I am a distinguished graduate of the FBI National Academy, Session 283. I hold a postgraduate certificate in criminal justice/safety studies from the University of Virginia and two master\'s degrees in criminal justice/safety studies and organizational leadership from Fort Hays State University.My mission is rooted in a commitment to serving and protecting the public with the utmost integrity, professionalism, and excellence. I actively cultivate trust and collaboration with the community and various stakeholders. A dedicated educator, I contribute to shaping the next generation of law enforcement leaders as an adjunct faculty member at the University of San Diego. In this role, I impart best practices in community engagement, organizational theory, and change for law enforcement.Beyond my professional commitments, I am deeply involved in community organizations, such as NOBLE, and have served as a former president of the San Diego Chapter of the National Black Police Association. From 2016 to 2019, I was the treasurer of the San Diego Branch of the NAACP. My engagement extends to working with local youth, practicing martial arts, and expressing my passion for music through playing the saxophone. Through these pursuits, I contribute to the well-being and development of the community I am honored to serve.