WORCESTER, MA – November 3, 2026 – The Quinsigamond Community College Police Department has earned its third accreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. The department made history in 2017 when it became the first community college police department in Massachusetts to receive this designation. Since that time, the department has continued to maintain its accreditation through the Commission’s reaccreditation process, which is required every three years.
“Accreditation is an important milestone because it strengthens public trust, promotes continuous improvement and reinforces our commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment where students, faculty, staff and visitors can learn, work and thrive,” said QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja.
“The accreditation process is an important opportunity for our department to take a thorough look at every aspect of our operations and ensure we are meeting the highest professional standards in law enforcement,” said QCC Police Chief Stephen DiGiovanni. “While the process is extensive, it reinforces our commitment to continuous improvement and accountability.”
Accreditation involves a comprehensive, independent review of a department’s policies, procedures, training programs, evidence management, community engagement efforts and overall organizational practices. The commission’s standards are drawn from those of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, which was established in 1979. Commission-appointed assessors, typically police chiefs and accreditation managers, conduct on-site evaluations.
DiGiovanni said accreditation serves as independent verification that the department is operating according to recognized best practices.
“It validates our commitment to professionalism, transparency and excellence in service,” he said. “It also helps us identify areas where we can continue to improve and adapt to the evolving needs of our community.”
For the college community, accreditation offers assurance that policies and practices have been reviewed by outside assessors and found to meet established professional standards, DiGiovanni continued. “The process helps strengthen public trust by showing our commitment to operating in a manner that is fair, consistent and community-focused.”
DiGiovanni credited the department’s officers and staff for the achievement.
“I am extremely proud of the work our department has accomplished to achieve accreditation. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our staff and our unwavering commitment to providing a safe and secure learning environment for our students, faculty, staff and visitors,” he said. “Accreditation is not simply an award. It is a commitment to excellence that guides how we serve our community every day.”
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