Dr. Luann Pannell is the Director of Instructional Design & Academic Innovation for the Policing Leadership Academy at the University of Chicago Crime Lab.
Dr. Pannell joined LAPD in 2000, where she supported officer and organizational wellness as a Police Psychologist at Behavioral Science Services until 2005. She was then promoted and served for 18 years in the role of Director, Police Training and Education. In this capacity, Dr. Pannell played a pivotal role in the design, development, and oversight of LAPD’s training curriculum, from basic academy training through all supervisory and advanced levels, including command staff.
Throughout her LAPD tenure, Dr. Pannell engaged police professionals nationally and internationally, studying best practices and innovations in police training and completed two years as the co-chair of the Interpol Group of Experts on Police Training (IGEPT). Dr. Pannell demonstrated her commitment to incorporating academic and community insight into police training by co-chairing the Professional Advisory Committee (PAC). The PAC created a forum for integrating evidence-based policing practices, updated educational methodology, and current community expectations into police training. PAC members reviewed Department policies and training materials regarding human relations and vulnerable populations, ensuring diverse community feedback within the training process.
Her research has centered on topics such as the impact of exposure to community violence, post-traumatic stress disorder, resiliency, post-traumatic growth, and organizational change. She co-authored a chapter on Shaping Culture in the book, “Leadership in Dangerous Situations: A Handbook for the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, and First Responders.” Dr. Pannell has also contributed articles to professional journals, addressing subjects ranging from the importance of partnerships between law enforcement and mental health professionals to enhancing training outcomes for law enforcement.
After 23 years with the LAPD, Dr. Pannell currently serves as CEO of Exceptional Edge Consulting in San Gabriel, CA.
Dr. Pannell’s education includes a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fuller Seminary’s School of Psychology in Pasadena, CA, as well as a master’s degree in theology with a focus on Cross-Cultural Studies. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho.
Policing Leadership Academy
The Policing Leadership Academy (PLA) is designed to increase safety and fairness in America’s most violent neighborhoods.
