Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven C. McCraw was recognized for his leadership and service at his final Public Safety Commission (PSC) meeting before retiring later this year. The meeting, held at DPS headquarters in Austin, saw PSC Chairman Steven P. Mach and commissioners Nelda Luce Blair, Dan Hord III, Larry Long, and Steve Stodghill adopt a resolution to name the new training facility in Williamson County as the Steven C. McCraw Law Enforcement Academy and Training Center.

Chairman Mach praised McCraw's impact on the department: “In the last 15 years of his career, Steven McCraw has made an extraordinary and everlasting impact on the Texas Department of Public Safety.” He added that naming the facility after McCraw would continue to inspire future recruits.

The new academy will be funded by the 88th Texas Legislature and will train Texas Highway Patrol Trooper recruits along with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. Phase 1 construction is set to begin this winter.

Currently, DPS’ Trooper Trainee Academy operates between two locations requiring daily transportation for recruits. The new facility aims to consolidate training operations, improving schedules and quality.

Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick presented proclamations thanking McCraw for his leadership over 15 years. Additionally, the Texas Ranger Division named him an honorary Texas Ranger Captain for his patriotism and service to Texas.

The Texas State Troopers Association awarded McCraw "The Blue Shield" award for his commitment to defending law enforcement principles.