Growing up in the heart of New York City, Joseph Lozada learned the value of hard work, discipline, and community at a young age.
His parents worked tirelessly, and their example left a lasting impact. “They didn’t talk a lot about values—they lived them,” he says. “That taught me more than anything else.”
Now, with over two decades of experience in public safety, law enforcement, education, and private security, Joseph directs security operations at different healthcare organizations in NYC. He’s also an adjunct professor who has taught criminal justice and sociology in an urban university setting for over 20 years.
But his journey didn’t begin with titles or awards. It started with team sports, civic engagement, and a strong interest in public service. “Playing sports as a kid helped me understand leadership and teamwork,” Joseph says. “But I was also always interested in helping others. I knew I wanted to serve in some way.”
He followed that passion to earn his Bachelor’s in Police Studies. He later went on to earn his Master’s in Criminal Justice. Along the way, he added various certifications in private security, homeland security, instructional design, and law enforcement training.
His academic background laid the foundation for a long career with the NYPD. Over 20 years, he worked in several roles—from patrol officer to crime analyst to police academy instructor. “The teaching and mentoring part came naturally to me,” he reflects. “Even in the field, I was always explaining things, trying to help the citizens of New York City and the newer officers.”
After retiring from the NYPD, Joseph didn’t slow down. He moved into leadership roles in healthcare security. “It’s a different environment, but the goals are similar—keep people safe, stay prepared, and lead with clarity,” he says.
Joseph believes security should be proactive. “A lot of people think of safety as just reacting to threats. But real safety starts before anything happens—with training, with planning, with culture.”
That belief also shapes his work in higher education. He sees teaching not just as instruction, but as mentorship. “You don’t just hand out grades—you help students become thoughtful professionals.”
Outside of work, Joseph is deeply involved in mentoring and community engagement. He’s taught the NYC Citizens Police Academy course and regularly volunteers his time to coach students and young professionals pursuing law enforcement careers.
“I think it’s important to make space for others to grow,” he says. “Especially in fields like criminal justice or security—people need guidance, not just information.”
Over the years, Joseph has received awards for both fieldwork and leadership—from commendations in the NYPD to executive recognition in the private sector. But for him, the true reward is seeing the people around him succeed.
“Whether it’s a colleague handling a crisis calmly, or a student finding their voice in class—those moments stick with me,” he says.
Even with a packed schedule, Joseph stays grounded. He makes time for health and fitness and continues reading about leadership, public safety, and criminal justice reform. “You can’t lead if you’re not also learning,” he adds.
From the streets of New York City, to teaching college students, to the boardrooms of healthcare security, Joseph Lozada’s journey has been one of steady, intentional service.
“I’m not trying to be a hero,” he says simply. “I’m just trying to do my part—and help others do theirs.”
Read more:
A Life Built on Purpose: Joseph Lozada on Leadership, Safety, and Service