I really liked the atmosphere with smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from the professors. Averett’s faculty members wanted you to succeed. – Matthew Carter ’95
Matthew Carter retired from the Danville Police Department on Sept. 1, 2020 with 27 years of service. He attended Danville Community College from 1989 through 1992 and received an associate’s degree in both Liberal Arts and Administration of Justice. Then in 1992, he attended Averett College (before it was Averett University) and received a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology / Criminal Justice. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree he went on to purse his Master’s degree from Longwood University.
During his time at the Danville Police Department he worked as a Patrol Officer, Criminal Investigator, Lieutenant of Services, Captain of Community Police, Captain of Professional Standards, and Captain of Investigations. He also served as Public Information Officer at various times. He previously instructed Report Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals at Danville Community College, and has also instructed Police In America and Organized Crime at Averett University.
Matthew recently began a new role as Executive Director at Piedmont Regional Criminal Justice Training Academy in Martinsville, VA this past February. The academy services 13 law enforcement and public safety agencies across Patrick County, Henry County, and Pittsylvania County.
His advice for someone debating on going back to school: “Although it can be challenging trying to find the time to balance everything, it is well worth it. If you are fortunate enough to have the time and resources to attend school full-time, do it. As life happens – marriage, children, etc., it becomes more difficult to balance everything.”
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