HWS News
26 June 2025 • Alums • Athletics Emma Faso '23, MSM '24 Joins New York State Police
HWS graduate trades lesson plans for a badge as she embarks on a career in law enforcement.
Emma Faso's path to law enforcement began at Hobart and William Smith. After earning her bachelor's degree in educational studies in 2023 and her master's degree in management in 2024, Faso sought a meaningful way to serve her community and is now working to advance public safety and community trust as a New York State Trooper.
In February, Faso graduated from the 216th Basic School Academy for the New York State Police after completing seven months of intensive physical and academic training. The program not only sharpened her resilience but also equipped her with the tools to protect and serve with integrity, she says.
Faso largely credits her decision to pursue law enforcement to her experiences at Hobart and William Smith. Through courses, particularly those taught by Professor of Sociology James Sutton, she gained a deep understanding of ethical policing's critical role in building strong communities. Sutton's classes, which often featured guest visits ranging from New York State Troopers to victims of domestic abuse, offered both academic insight and real-world perspectives.
"It was in those classes that I knew I had found my calling," Faso says. "Professor Sutton was the first person I emailed after graduating from the academy. My goal was to put a new NYSP patch on the historic police patch wall in his office. His courses taught me not only how important police work is, but how understanding society through a sociological lens can truly change communities for the better," she says.
In addition to her major in educational studies, she earned a double minor is child advocacy and sociology.
Beyond academics, Faso honed vital skills through William Smith athletics, playing on both the soccer (2021-23) and ice hockey (2021-24) teams.
"William Smith Athletics teaches confidence, respect, discipline and, most importantly, how to be the best teammate on and off the playing field," she explains. "All of those lessons translated perfectly into law enforcement. At the end of the day, the New York State Police is one big team working together to protect and serve with respect for all."
Faso says the support she received from HWS was invaluable in realizing her dream.
"I'll always cherish my time at HWS," Faso says. "Every mentor, teammate and professor who believed in me helped me get to where I am today, wearing this badge and serving the community with pride," she says.
Top: Emma Faso '23, MSM '24 poses after graduating from the 216th Basic School Academy for the New York State Police.
