Since its inception, John Jay College has been an institution proud to educate public safety leaders in law enforcement, fire suppression, and emergency medical services. Every day, these brave members of our community work hard to keep us safe. We’re continually grateful for their service, and in recognition of their considerable contributions to our safety, we’re dedicating our “Behind the Badge” series to them. In these articles we get to see the man or woman “behind the badge.” We get to know what inspires them, understand what challenges them, and most importantly learn about their jobs through their own thoughts and experiences.
Earlier this summer, New York Police Department (NYPD) Police Officer and John Jay alumna Lily Graham ’18 came to the rescue of a 63-year-old tourist who suffered a heart attack while walking on a Manhattan Street with his wife. “My partner and I were inside an adjacent location when the male collapsed,” recalls Graham, who is also a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). “My natural instincts kicked in and I began performing chest compressions, aiding this lifeless male. With the efforts of all the officers on the scene, EMS [Emergency Medical Services], and hospital staff, he is now living and in good health.” While Graham is modest about the role she played, there’s no denying that her immediate attention and action—she performed chest compressions for 10 minutes—were vital to saving the man’s life. Looking back at the moment, Graham calls it one of the best in her law enforcement career so far. “It was a good feeling all around. The day we saved the gentleman’s life was a reminder of why I put this uniform on day in and day out. It’s to help others. Police officers are making positive differences every day. It’s very rewarding knowing our efforts on the streets of New York are able to change lives for the better.”
“The day we saved the gentleman’s life was a reminder of why I put this uniform on day in and day out. It’s to help others.” —Lily Graham
Graham’s stellar performance in the field is no surprise to the John Jay community. During her time as a scholar-athlete at the College, Graham excelled academically landing on the Dean’s List year after year, and she was an athletics superstar for three years, joining the Rifle program in 2015 and becoming captain of the team and one of the most accomplished shooters in the program’s history. We connected with Graham to learn more about her career in the NYPD and how John Jay impacted her life.
Who or what inspired you to embark on a career in law enforcement?
Since I was about six years old, I knew I wanted to work in law enforcement and aspired to be a successful woman in this male-dominated profession. As I grew older, my interest in the field only intensified—seeing my stepfather be a Police Captain in New Jersey really sparked my interest.
What does a typical day on the job look like for you?
There is no typical day on patrol as a New York City Police Officer. I work with my partner as a response auto of the 13th Precinct. We answer 911 calls, conduct prisoner transports, and other general assignments. Usually, we start the day at roll call where we stand with the platoon and wait for our assignments for the day from our supervisor. Once we receive the assignments, we report to our police car and begin answering 911 calls of service. Each call we get from 911 is unique. We can answer anything from a noise complaint to a rescue job, to a crime-in-progress call.
How has your John Jay education enhanced your career in law enforcement? Can you remember any specific lessons or classes that really stuck with you in your career?
John Jay enhanced my career as a police officer in several ways. In the classroom specifically, Professor John Walsh, or Captain Walsh, played a crucial role during my time at John Jay and now in my career. His knowledge and very applicable lessons have stuck with me to this day. The John Jay Athletics department and my Rifle coaches also helped shape the person that I am today, instilling lessons about leadership and teamwork both on and off the range.
“As officers, we meet individuals experiencing potentially the worst moments of their lives. It’s our job, without hesitation, to do everything we can to assist.” —Lily Graham
What do you want the public to know about your job?
NYPD officers and law enforcement all over the nation are reporting for duty every day to help others, while potentially putting ourselves in harm’s way for complete strangers. As officers, we meet individuals experiencing potentially the worst moments of their lives. It’s our job, without hesitation, to do everything we can to assist.
What advice would you give to future law enforcement officers and emergency medical professionals?
To be successful in any of these fields, you need a strong foundation and desire for service. Solely joining the law enforcement or emergency medical profession for good benefits and a paycheck will equal a short-lived career. You must be willing and have a deep desire to help others. A true desire for serving will make all the difference and will lead to a fulfilling career. Being a police officer isn’t just a job. You don’t stop being an officer when you finish your shift. Being an officer, it’s crucial to know that you can be called upon at any moment and be willing to answer any and all calls for help.
