TIME:                   For Immediate Release
DATE:                  July 8, 2026 
CONTACT:           John Tompkins, Director of Government Affairs and Communications

(281) 756-3551 office

Cadet Jordan Wilmore Graduates From Alvin College Police Academy
Alvin College cadet Jordan Wilmore graduated from the police academy on July 7, marking the next step
in his path toward a career in law enforcement.
Wilmore, a 24-year-old Kemah resident, has drawn attention throughout the Houston area for his
perseverance and his 7-foot, 3-inch height, making him a standout among law enforcement recruits in
Texas.
Wilmore’s path was not without setbacks. After completing his initial academy training, he narrowly
missed passing the Texas peace officer licensing exam by one point. Instead of walking away, he
continued training, studied for the exam again and passed.
His determination also drew support from beyond the Alvin College campus. NBA Hall of Famer
Shaquille O’Neal, who has his own background in law enforcement, followed Wilmore’s journey and
stepped in after learning he had narrowly missed the state licensing exam. O’Neal encouraged Wilmore,
offered financial support to help him continue his training and discussed helping provide a vehicle suited
for his future law enforcement career.
For Wilmore’s instructors and supporters at Alvin College, the moment he passed the exam showed how
much the journey had meant.
“Jordan came and sat in my office right after passing the TCOLE exam,” said Dr. John J. Murray,
Executive Director of the Center of Excellence. “I wish anyone who ever doubted him could have seen
him in that moment. He did not need to say a word to show what this meant to him, how hard he
worked for it and the weight he carried through this journey.
“It was victory, gratitude and humility wrapped together. I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes
next with Kemah PD.”
Wilmore also was sworn in with the Kemah Police Department on July 7.
“We expect a lot from our cadets, and all of them worked very hard during their time in the academy,”
said Crystal L. Taylor, Department Chair of Criminal Justice and Training Coordinator for the Law

Enforcement Academy. “Jordan, however, came to us with more pressure than most cadets to prove
himself, and he handled it with humility and perseverance that will serve him well in his career.
“Law enforcement is about so much more than size. It is about mental fortitude, patience and staying
calm under pressure, all characteristics Jordan exhibited in this class. Jordan wants to help others, and
he has more than proven he has the heart for law enforcement. I look forward to seeing where his
career takes him, because he earned it.”
Alvin College’s Law Enforcement Academy prepares future peace officers through comprehensive
training that meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement objectives, hands-on, scenario-based
instruction and preparation for the state licensing examination.
For more information about Alvin College’s Law Enforcement Academy, visit alvincollege.edu.