Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police Announces Cory McGookin as Executive Director
RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP) announces the appointment of Cory McGookin as its new Executive Director. Dana Schrad, who is retiring after serving as Executive Director for 30 years, is recognized for her leadership and lasting contributions to the Association. McGookin’s appointment marks a new chapter for the organization in its 100th year as it continues to serve as the representative body for police executives in Virginia and a leadership development center for law enforcement across the Commonwealth.
Cory McGookin brings extensive leadership and public safety experience to the role, including a distinguished career as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During his tenure, he led the FBI’s National Academy program, working with law enforcement leaders from across the country and around the world to advance professional development, leadership capability, and organizational effectiveness. He is also an International Coaching Federation (ICF)-certified coach with a focus on leadership development and performance.
“I am honored to serve as Executive Director and to support the leaders who serve our communities every day. My focus is on building strong, capable leaders across all ranks and helping unify law enforcement across the Commonwealth. We have an opportunity to set the standard nationally for leadership in policing, and I am committed to that mission,” said Cory McGookin.
The VACP is focused on strengthening its role as a unifying voice for law enforcement in Virginia and delivering measurable value to its members through high-quality training, leadership development, and statewide collaboration.
“Cory brings a rare combination of operational credibility and leadership development expertise to the Association, and we are confident in his ability to lead us into our next chapter. We also want to thank Director Schrad for her leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the police profession which shaped the VACP into what it is today, and express that we are deeply grateful for her service,” said Chief John Clair, President of the VACP and Chief of Police for the Blacksburg Police Department.
The Association also extends its deep gratitude and appreciation for Dana Schrad, who has served as Executive Director since January 1996. Her leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions have shaped the VACP into a respected and influential organization within Virginia and beyond. Her impact on the profession and the Association will endure for decades.
“I’ve been honored to serve this organization for the past 30 years. I believe strongly in the mission of supporting public safety executives and advancing professionalism in law enforcement. I have no doubt that the VACP will continue to grow in its mission and to be influential in criminal justice policy in Virginia,” said Dana Schrad.
The VACP invites law enforcement leaders and agencies across Virginia to join the Association and be part of a statewide network committed to advancing leadership, strengthening agencies, and supporting the profession.
For more information about membership and upcoming programs, visit https://www.vachiefs.org/.
About the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation (VACP) is a statewide charitable organization of federal, state and local police chiefs and other law enforcement executives dedicated to improving the professionalism of police agencies in Virginia and to providing training and education programs for law enforcement executives. The Association was founded in 1926.
Media Contact:
Cory McGookin
VACP Executive Director
cory@vachiefs.org
540-621-8683