Colonel David Binder – an Askew School of Public Administration alumnus – was recently appointed as the Assistant Commissioner of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
The FDLE’s mission is to promote public safety and strengthen domestic security by providing services in partnership with local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies to prevent, investigate, and solve crimes. They employ about 1,900 members statewide with an annual budget of over $300 million.
Colonel Binder brings over 25 years of state law enforcement experience to his new role, including work as a state trooper for the Florida Highway Patrol.
He graduated with his Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Askew School at Florida State University in 2007.
As a Tallahassee resident, he noted the renowned MPA program at FSU as central to his decision to attend FSU.
“The research design and methods classes enabled me to determine the effectiveness of programs,” Colonel Binder said.
He has also served as an advisor to the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is a licensed pilot.
When asked what advice he would share with current students, Colonel Binder shared, “I would recommend current students take the time to network and develop relationships with potential mentors. Also, take the research design and methods courses seriously, they will make you a much better manager when you can accurately assess program performance!”
Colonel Binder and his wife Valerie reside in Tallahassee and maintain strong connections to the local community through their involvement in supporting children in foster care through the Guardian Ad Litem program and other child welfare-related activities.