The Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department is now one of four university police agencies in Virginia and one of 67 law enforcement agencies statewide to be accredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPSC).  Virginia Commonwealth University Police was evaluated over a two-year period for its performance and consistency in carrying out 180 accreditation standards in administration, operations, personnel and training.  Colonel Willie B. Fuller initiated the accreditation process in 2000.  Colonel Fuller assigned Lieutenant David Q. Welch, a twenty-four year veteran, to be the Accreditation Manager for the agency.  Lieutenant Welch continued to work on the process and, in 2006, went full time to complete the task.

On January 8, 2008, a team of assessors from VLEPSC evaluated the agency. On February 21, 2008, Colonel Fuller and Lieutenant Welch addressed the commission board and the assessment was unanimously approved.  Lieutenant Welch identified the entire process as a “strengthening tool” to bring about even more professional qualities in the policies, procedures, and overall agency management.  The Commission commended the entire agency for its dedication and support in making the accreditation process a complete success.   “It was a team effort and we excelled,” stated Welch.