Tarrick McGuire, the Assistant Police Chief of the Arlington TX Police Department, is a native of Dallas, TX, and an alumnus of Criswell College. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Assistant Chief McGuire is a nationally recognized expert on issues surrounding police reform and public policy. He previously worked with the Obama White House Administration and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Alongside his policing career, Assistant Chief McGuire holds a B.A. in Speech Communications from Oklahoma State University, an M.A. in Christian Leadership from Criswell College, and a Doctor of Public Administration from California Baptist University. However, what is most important to him is his dedication to serving others.
Assistant Chief McGuire has always been a strong believer in serving others, which stems from the principles of Jesus Christ instilled in him during his upbringing. Ministry, to him, is not confined to an institution or church membership, but rather the expression of Christ in how one lives their life as an ambassador of God’s kingdom. Regardless of whether or not one believes in the gospel of Jesus Christ, Assistant Chief McGuire remains committed to exhibiting God’s love to those he encounters while serving the community, which he considers his true calling.
Assistant Chief McGuire first heard about Criswell College when he was evaluating his spiritual walk with Christ and seeking advancement in his policing career. After researching accredited colleges online, he found Criswell’s suitable program to achieve a master’s degree. The program was affordable and flexible, making it a great fit for him.
Reflecting on his time at Criswell College, Assistant Chief McGuire recalls his first class on the Apostle Paul, where they focused on his letter to the Romans. Understanding the doctrine and exposition of what he was communicating was transformational. He left class that night feeling mentally challenged and inspired, knowing that he was at the right College.
When asked how his Criswell education impacted his life, ministry, or career, Assistant Chief McGuire mentioned a class practicum that required him to go to a homeless shelter in downtown Dallas and minister to the homeless. While speaking with them, he learned about their life circumstances and recalled one father who was raising two daughters by himself. The father stated, “I have a relationship with God, I need a job.” Assistant Chief McGuire had nothing to offer him but prayer. This story has always stuck with him, as it reminds him of the importance of listening to people and understanding their issues. Assistant Chief McGuire believes that meeting people where they are and working to provide them with the resources they need are two tenets of building public trust between police and communities.
When asked what advice he would provide to a young male or female who desires to go into ministry or a Christ-centered career, Assistant Chief McGuire said, “We live in a complex world. Do what God has called you to do. Seek God. Learn God. Follow God. Live God.”
Learn more about our B.A. in Biblical Studies by following this link:
https://www.criswell.edu/academics/ba-in-biblical-studies/
Learn more about Criswell’s M.A. in Christian Leadership program:
https://www.criswell.edu/academics/ma-in-christian-leadership/
