Most of us, in our childhood years, have definite ideas about what we want to be when we grow up. Few of us hold to those ideas as the years pass. But TLU alum Tyler McCann always knew what he would be: a police officer, like his dad.
“I was raised by my father to value helping others, serving my community, and standing up for those who may not be able to stand up for themselves,” the 2021 grad says. “These values have shaped my desire to pursue a career in law enforcement, where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while protecting and serving my community.”
McCann’s father, Lt. Mike McCann, did more than talk about those values—he lived them himself, dedicating his own career to serving others. “My father is a lieutenant with the Seguin Police Department and has dedicated his career to serving his community for over 26 years, beginning on October 6, 2000,” says McCann. “Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of watching him serve others, give back to the community, and demonstrate what it truly means to be committed to public service. His example has had a profound impact on my desire to pursue a career in law enforcement.”
But McCann’s dad isn’t his only source of inspiration. “My courage and determination to take on this responsibility come from my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who guides my steps and gives me strength,” he says. “I am also blessed to have the unwavering support of my wife, whose encouragement motivates me to continue pursuing this lifelong dream. Together, my faith, my family, and the example set by my father inspire me to serve with integrity, compassion, and dedication.”
McCann graduated from the Alamo Area Council of Governments Law Enforcement Academy and joined the Seguin PD in February of this year. Since then, he has faced the challenges connected with his work—but he has also valued the rewards.
“One of the most challenging aspects of law enforcement is knowing that I will often encounter people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” he says. “While it can be difficult to witness others experiencing pain, fear, or uncertainty, I believe one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession is the opportunity to make those moments a little easier through compassion, empathy, and respect. Although I may not always be able to change the circumstances someone is facing, I can control how I treat them and the support I provide. My goal is to ensure that every person I encounter feels heard, respected, and treated with dignity, regardless of the situation.”
McCann, who earned his degree in kinesiology at TLU, says his college years helped to equip him for his calling.
“Throughout my academic journey, I had the privilege of learning from professors such as Dr. James Newberry and Dr. Timothy Kent, who consistently demonstrated professionalism and served as positive role models,” he says. “Their guidance and example helped shape my understanding of the importance of professionalism, accountability, and personal growth.”
He also learned some valuable lessons through his involvement with athletics. “Playing football at TLU provided me with invaluable, lifelong lessons in teamwork, discipline, leadership, perseverance, and commitment. These experiences have helped prepare me to pursue a career in law enforcement by teaching me the importance of working with others, remaining accountable, and carrying myself with integrity both on and off the field.”
