During a 26-year career at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center near Yoder. Alvin Sowers has been involved in the training of nearly 200 of the 356 basic training classes that have come through KLETC. Friday’s graduation of the 356th class was the last for Sowers before his retirement as its Associate Director.
While Sowers, who served as a Lyons Police officer before joining the training center in 2000, was insistent there not be any reception or other special recognition, he was honored at the end of the graduation ceremony.
Darin Beck, Vice Provost and Director of KLETC, worked with Sowers through his career, and in remarks he said this was a bittersweet moment. “26 years is a remarkable amount of time, time enough to train generations of law enforcement officers”, Beck said, in roles ranging from instructor, to administrator, to senior leadership.
Beck added Sowers was a quiet presence at the center, helping shape curriculum, support accreditation, strengthen operations, and making sure KLETC maintained the standards and reputation that officers around the state rely on.
In addition to presenting him a plaque in recognition of his service, Beck also announced The University of Kansas, which oversees KLETC, is bestowing upon Sowers the designation of Associate Director Emeritus
Alvin Sowers’ son, Rice County Sheriff Nick Sowers, also was part of the ceremony.
