A veteran on the Joliet police force has received a special honor for not only what he does on the job, but also for his positive presence in the community.
Joliet Police Lieutenant Andrew Jose, a watch commander, was honored April 25 at District 54 Toastmaster Spring Conference for his exceptional humanitarian service and longstanding dedication to mentoring both officers and youth. With nearly 30 years of service, he has played a pivotal role in developing future law enforcement professionals through his leadership in the Field Training Unit and his hands-on, engaged supervision style.
Beyond his departmental impact, he has spent over 12 years leading the Joliet Police Explorer Post, mentoring young people pursuing careers in public service. He has also revitalized youth programs statewide through his leadership in the Illinois Law Enforcement Youth Association, expanding training and development opportunities for aspiring professionals.
Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. District 54 serves areas including Joliet, Plainfield and Bolingbrook.
Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization’s membership is approximately 270,000 in more than 14,000 clubs in 150 countries.
Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.
Arlene Santiago, who serves on the District 54 Conference Planning Committee and as vice president of public relations for the Lincoln-Way Toastmasters in Frankfort, said the Communication and Leadership Award Jose received was established to honor an outstanding citizen within the district who exemplifies exceptional communication and leadership skills.
“This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate these strengths both in their field of expertise and through their contributions to the community,” said Santiago.
In their conference program, Toastmasters’ officials lauded Jose for his “deep personal commitment” to those he mentors in the community by supporting them well beyond their time in his program.
Santiago said more than 115 people attended the recent conference
Jose, who has served with the Joliet Police Department for 28 years and currently holds the rank of lieutenant on the night shift and is a watch commander, said he was unfamiliar with Toastmasters until a colleague introduced him to the organization.
“I am truly grateful to Sgt. Nicholas Giordano for recommending me for this award,” he said. “Sgt. Giordano and I frequently discuss leadership and the importance of supporting and developing younger officers.
“Jose said, “As I learned more about Toastmaster, I found that its principles have complemented my work in completing my master’s program. The insights and techniques, particularly around public speaking and effective leadership, have provided me with new perspectives that I have been able to apply in both academic and professional settings.”
Jose noted that it is not lost on him the special meaning behind the honor he received on Saturday.
“This award is especially meaningful to me because it comes from someone, I have had the privilege to supervise, someone who recognized the effort and care I have put into leading our shift,” he said. “Sgt. Giordano and I also worked together in the Explorer Program, where we help introduce young people to careers in law enforcement. We share a strong belief in how fortunate we are to serve in this profession and a commitment to giving back by mentoring the next generation.
Jose said he views Toastmasters as not only providing tools to improve his communication on the job, but the overall perception of Joliet Police Department as well.
“Recently, I had a conversation with Deputy Chief of Operations Robert Brown about the importance of leaving the Joliet Police Department better than we found it as we approach the later stages of our careers,” he added. “It is my hope that this award reflects a meaningful contribution toward that goal.”
Santiago said many of Jose’s mentees have gone on to successful careers in law enforcement, the military, and other fields. A Marine Corps veteran whose family immigrated from Haiti, “his values of hard work, service, and opportunity continue to drive his efforts to give back.
“His lasting impact on individuals and the broader community makes him highly deserving of this recognition,” Santiago added.
A keynote address at the event was given by Radhi Spear, immediate international past president of Toastmasters. Her speech, “Reach and Achieve,” shared her personal journey and encouraged attendees to continue pushing beyond their comfort zones in pursuit of growth,” Santiago said.
