"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
Psalm 82:3–4, NIV
John Best joined East Texas Baptist University as an adjunct faculty in the Fall of 2024 and became an Assistant Professor in the fall of 2025. Prior to transitioning into the field of education, he completed a distinguished 36-year career in law enforcement.
With over three decades of service in law enforcement, education, and community engagement, Professor Best has built a career marked by leadership, dedication, and professionalism. He holds a M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management from Sam Houston State University (2009) and a B.S. in Business Management from LeTourneau University (1998).
Professor Best dedicated 33 years of service to the Marshall Police Department, retiring in 2023 at the rank of Assistant Chief. In 2023, he transitioned to Elysian Fields ISD, where he served as Operations Director and Chief of Police through 2024. Chief Best is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT).
In addition to his professional roles, he has contributed to higher education as an Adjunct Instructor at East Texas Baptist University, teaching Criminal Justice in the Spring 2017 and again during the 2024–2025 academic year.
Professor Best has been recognized with multiple commendations, including the Marshall Police Department’s Certificates of Commendation for Leadership and Meritorious Achievement, the Law Enforcement Merit Award from the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce, and Officer of the Year from the Marshall Police Officers Association.