Proving the path exists: One police officer’s rise to VA’s executive ranks

When Roger Hudson joined VA Police in November 2002, he was looking for a way back to the work he missed: serving people and protecting his community.

He began his law enforcement career working for the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office in Rapid City, South Dakota. But when his father became ill, he left law enforcement to help operate the family mechanic shop. The decision was difficult, but it also clarified what mattered to him.

While looking for his next opportunity, Hudson’s wife found a VA Police job posting. The Air Force Veteran didn’t know VA had its own police force.

“I immediately felt a sense of purpose and knew this was the path I wanted to pursue,” Hudson said.

His first day brought excitement and humility. More than two decades later, he still describes VA Police work in the same terms: serving those who served the nation.

That commitment has now taken Hudson to a historic milestone. He is the first person in VA history to rise from a police officer position to the Senior Executive Service after recently being sworn-in as deputy executive director for the Office of Security and Law Enforcement (OSLE) at VA’s Central Office in the District of Columbia .

For VA’s law enforcement workforce, Hudson’s appointment offers a clear message: career growth is possible, and the path begins with daily service, learning and the willingness to take on new challenges.

From patrol to opportunity

Early in his career, Hudson sometimes wondered whether he would move beyond patrol. Like many officers, he was focused on responding to calls, meeting the needs of Veterans and staff, and handling the responsibilities in front of him.

His perspective changed when colleagues and supervisors encouraged him to take the next step. They saw potential in him and pushed him to build confidence, pursue development and consider opportunities beyond his comfort zone.

Hudson earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in legal studies while working full-time. The work required time and discipline, but he said education strengthened his ability to examine issues from different angles.

That learning still guides his leadership. Education helped Hudson distinguish between questions that require a policy or procedural response and situations that require more context, listening or understanding.

He now approaches challenges with an open mind, seeking input from others and balancing sound policy with empathy. Those habits matter in law enforcement, where officers and leaders must make decisions that affect Veterans, employees and visitors every day.

Mentors who made a difference

Hudson points first to his faith as a source of strength throughout his career. He also credits mentors who challenged him, encouraged him and opened doors at key points along the way.

Among them are Dr. James Ward, retired executive director of the Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC); Lewis Ratchford, former chief of OSP; Dr. Ron Miller, chief officer of support operations for Veterans Health Administration; and Aleatha Colter, executive assistant for OSLE.

Hudson remembers a division chief meeting when Ward, after being accepted into the SES, spoke to Hudson and several colleagues.

“If I can do it, you can, too.”

The comment planted the seed for Hudson’s own aspirations. Ward continued to encourage him through his swearing-in and remains a trusted adviser in retirement.

Miller gave Hudson his first opportunity to serve at the GS-15 level through a temporary promotion as senior security officer for VHA. Colter also made a lasting impact by investing in Hudson’s success during that role and continuing to support him as he advanced to regional director and then SES.

It’s a lesson Hudson now carries forward: mentorship isn’t simply career advice; It’s recognizing potential, providing honest guidance and helping others prepare for opportunities they may not yet see for themselves.

A platform for others

It was a friend at the LETC who first told Hudson that his appointment was historic, but his focus remains on what the milestone can mean for other members of VA’s law enforcement workforce.

“My hope is to encourage others to pursue their aspirations, whether that means aiming for the Senior Executive Service or reaching their own professional goals,” he said.

For an officer at the GS-6 entry-level who doesn’t see a route to executive leadership, Hudson offers practical advice: be intentional about development, seek opportunities, build skills, broaden experience and find mentors who will provide candid guidance.

“Career growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with perseverance, determination and a willingness to learn, executive leadership is well within reach,” said Hudson. “If I can do it, so can you.”

Hudson also recognizes that officers may encounter skepticism or differing opinions as they pursue their goals. His answer isn’t to argue, but to remain patient, follow the process and let integrity guide the work.

“The truth can stand intense examination,” he said.

Hudson encourages officers to pursue education and supervisory opportunities not only for their own development, but also because others may be watching. Since his appointment, others have reached out to tell him that his advancement renewed their own ambitions.

Leading for the mission

In his new role, Hudson plans to use his platform to strengthen mentoring, professional development and communication across VA law enforcement. He wants employees to feel respected, supported and able to ask for guidance as they develop their careers.

“Together, we can build a future where every member of our team feels valued, supported and inspired to achieve their career goals,” he said.

His message to current and future VA Police officers? Be grounded in service, integrity and compassion—and use every interaction with a Veteran, employee or visitor as an opportunity to build trust and contribute to VA’s mission.

“Never underestimate the positive impact you can have through your words, actions, and decisions,” Hudson said.