DBG graduate Lionel Banks, Jr. continues to rise through the ranks of law enforcement, and he credits DBG with helping him achieve his dream career. In October, Banks graduated and became a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. The federal agency guards our borders to prevent terrorism and apprehend anyone attempting to enter the U.S. illegally.
Lionel is a graduate of Ferris State University. He joined the Highland Park Police Department in 2022. Now, he’ll be stationed with U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Detroit, home of the busiest international crossing in North America.
“DBG has helped me from the age of 15,” he says. “They were my pat on the back, shoulder to cry on, or mentorship if I had a problem with anything. If I didn’t go to the gym, I would have gotten caught up in the streets.”
Lionel desire for growth and a new challenge led him to pursue a career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. After a successful few years as a Highland Park police officer, the transition to customs and border protection offers him the opportunity to engage in broader national security matters, work in diverse environments, and develop new skills. He says becoming a federal officer was no easy task – it involved a lengthy application process and rigorous training.
“We were tested on our physical conditioning, immigration law, and many other things,” he says. “I’m approaching this new path with the right mindset and I’m open to learning and seeing where it takes me. Whether it’s my final stop or a stepping stone, I’m focused on growth and making the most of every experience. This is truly an honor.”
Among those who attended his graduation ceremony at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, Georgia, were family members and his first partner with the Highland Park Police Department. He was pinned by his uncle Herman Curry, retired Deputy Chief of the Detroit Police Department.
Back in 2017, after Lionel graduated from Ferris State University and became one of the first male college graduates in his family’s history, our founder and CEO Khali Sweeney expressed his excitement and pride.
“With the right support network, with the right tools at hand, this is what he was able to achieve,” Khali said. “He also has an inner drive. [Lionel] is a shining example of what our young men should look like.”
What does it mean when we say DBG trains kids for life? It means giving our students the tools, resources, mentorship, role models, basic needs support, and endless opportunities to become the best version of themselves. It means pushing them to aim higher. It means helping young people like Lionel achieve their dreams. Congratulations from your entire DBG family, officer Banks. We are so proud.