Criminal Justice Training Lab named in his honor
On January 13, 2010, in a moving and compassionate ceremony at the Kaplan College campus, the college’s newest Criminal Justice Training Lab was dedicated and named in honor of fallen Border Patrol Agent Robert Rosas. Agent Rosas was tragically murdered on the evening of July 23, 2009, while on patrol in Campo California.
Kaplan College Criminal Justice Training Lab features a new Firearms Training Simulator (FATS) system where law enforcement officers and trainees will face various lethal threat situations that will help them make not only instant decisions, but know if it was the right decision and who survived the encounter.
Addressing a group of nearly 75 family and friends, law enforcement officers and Border Patrol agents; Kevin Prehn, Campus President, said, “Our campus is honored to commemorate Agent Robert Rosas’ service and sacrifice. We feel very privileged to have our Criminal Justice Training Lab bear his name.”
Mr. Prehn explained that one of the reasons that Kaplan chose to dedicate the lab to Agent Rosas was because one of its employees is a cousin of Agent Rosas and the organization wanted to show its support. It was also a way to thank other Border Patrol agents and law enforcement personnel for their service in protecting the country.
Amy Thompson-Smith, the Criminal Justice Program Director said, “Kaplan College is sincerely honored to dedicate the lab to the memory and sacrifice of Agent Rosas.” She expressed her pleasure that the lab will have a hand in improving and honing the training of future law enforcement personnel.
Agent Rosas’ sister, Arlene Brambilia, commented that Kaplan College’s dedication, “sends a message of respect and gratitude to those that serve our country with honor everyday.”
Rosalie Rosas, Agent Rosas’ wife and her two young children were also present. She said to the group, “Kaplan College’s decision to dedicate this lab in Robert’s name is a blessing and honor to all of us.” She went on to say, “When our children are a little older, I will bring them here to share the honor you left in our hearts.”
John Kolacinski, the Regional Vice President of Operations at Kaplan, thanked Ms. Rosas and presented to her a combined $10,000 scholarship for her two children should they attend Kaplan College in the future.
The group proceeded into the Criminal Justice Training Lab where a plaque was unveiled that commemorated the dedication of the lab to Agent Rosas. On the plaque, under the proud portrait of Agent Robert Rosas, were inscribed the words, “In honor of your ultimate sacrifice and dedication to your family and country.”