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London McBride Ed.D., is a 2026 graduate of the Ed.D. program in Educational and Professional Practice at Antioch University.

London McBride smiling.

Dissertation Committee:

Emiliano Gonzalez, Ph.D., Committee Chair 

Gary Delanoeye, Ed.D., Committee Member

Cristy Sugarman, Ed.D., Committee Member

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This dissertation explores the transformation of police officers into community peace officers by examining the mental and moral conflicts inherent in community engagement and law enforcement. Using scholarly personal narrative (SPN) as my methodology, the study integrates my lived experience as a Black law enforcement officer with broader discussions on race, power, leadership, and institutional culture. Grounded in critical race theory, social justice leadership, and trauma theory, the research investigates how systemic inequities, organizational resistance, and historical trauma influence policing practices and officer identity. The literature review highlights the legacy of racialized policing, the psychological toll of law enforcement work, and the need for equity-driven, trauma-informed leadership. Through reflexive storytelling and critical analysis, I’ll examine key moments of tension and transformation encountered throughout my career in policing, revealing how internal change can serve as a catalyst for institutional reform. The dissertation identifies barriers to change, such as cultural inertia and moral injury, while also exploring promising pathways rooted in procedural justice, emotional intelligence, and community trust-building. This work contributes to the growing field of practitioner-led research in criminal justice by centering lived experience as a source of scholarly insight. It offers a personal yet rigorous examination of how law enforcement must evolve to become more just, humane, and responsive to the needs of marginalized communities. Ultimately, the study positions narrative as a tool of social justice, advocating for a model of policing that prioritizes healing, relationship, and shared humanity.

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ORCID No. 0009-0007-5261-2761
 

Bio: London McBride is a human-centered educator, mentor, and leader committed to helping people and communities grow through justice, compassion, and trauma-informed practice. His work sits at the intersection of education, community engagement, equity leadership, and holistic safety, grounded in the belief that every person deserves dignity, voice, and the chance to thrive. Mr. McBride’s career has spanned over 25 years in law enforcement and community engagement, faculty roles in higher education, pastoral leadership, and service on multiple equity and human relations committees. As both a practitioner and an instructor, he’s trained officers, college students, healthcare workers, and organizational leaders in procedural justice, bias awareness, de-escalation, and community-centered safety. 

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