From the Field to the Force: How Akilah Lacey Built a Life of Service and Leadership

When we meet Akilah Lacey, now a lieutenant with the Pocatello Police Department, we discover a leader driven by a sense of service and integrity. But behind his badge lies a captivating story of perseverance, transformation, and self-discovery in unexpected places.

Born in Westminster, California, Lacey grew up between Los Angeles and Watts before moving to Orange County toward the end of elementary school. A diligent student and committed athlete, he entered college at just 17, attending Idaho State University on a full football scholarship. He played wide receiver, learning to balance academic and athletic demands far from home.

Lacey initially dreamed of becoming an engineer, with a passion for math and science. But the grueling pace of rigorous studies combined with collegiate sport soon took its toll. "Honestly, I wasn't disciplined enough," he confides. He then turned to a program in advertising and public relations, a field where he could tap into his creativity and communication skills.

This program immediately resonated with him.  "Each project gave me direct feedback. I could see my progress," he recalls. He thrived in this environment, where his talents in marketing, design, and storytelling came alive.

Graduating in December 2006, Lacey began training to become a professional athlete while working at Outer Limits Fun Zone, a family entertainment center in Pocatello. What started as a part-time job quickly became a valuable life school. Starting out as a laser tag referee, he rose through the ranks to become general manager, learning how to manage a team, from marketing to operations.

At the same time, he took freelance graphic design assignments, creating posters and advertising materials—skills he'd learned in his Photoshop classes at ISU. "Even the small assignments taught me a lot," he says. But despite his dedication to the position, Outer Limits didn't yet offer benefits. Seeking stability, he accepted an unexpected offer: to become a police officer.

In 2010, Lacey joined the Pocatello Police Department, a decision that surprised him. "I had a negative image of the police," he admits. But he wanted to change things from within. Little by little, he discovered a rich, human, and meaningful profession. "Most of the time, I meet people at the worst times of their lives. If I can bring them a little calm or simply listen to them, then I've accomplished something important." 

Now a lieutenant, he puts his communications skills to good use every day: writing press releases, managing public relations, and modernizing the department's digital image. "They often say you never use your degree. “I use it every day," he says with a smile.

Beyond his police career, Lacey earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Western Governors University, completing distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I thought online courses weren't serious, but it was a perfect fit for me," he admits. It's an experience that has transformed his outlook on education.

Despite the culture shock of his early days in Idaho, Lacey and his wife have put down roots in Pocatello. Together, they are raising three children, Lyric (13), Taj (10), and Cece (8) and are fully involved in local life. He coaches a youth soccer team and helps new ISU athletes settle in. "I know what it's like to be away from home, lost, and homesick. So, I open my home, share meals, and offer support."

He also participates in mentoring programs at ISU, such as mentoring the ISU women's basketball team, where he affectionately calls himself "Uncle." 

"ISU has given me so much. I have a duty to give back," he praises. Lacey credits a vast network of mentors at ISU. From soccer coaches to professors like Paula Jules, Professor Tesa Stegner, Ph.D. (economics), Professor Emerita Martine Beachboard, Ph.D. (mass communication), and Professor Gesine Hearn, Ph.D. in the sociology department are the important professors. They all helped him regain confidence after his major change,"I felt like I was failing when I left engineering. They reminded me that I had value."

He also emphasizes the strength of the network in Pocatello. “It may seem like a small town, but it’s full of amazing people. The relationships I’ve made here have opened unexpected doors for me.”

Now a high school football coach, Lacey often delivers this message: “These four years go by quickly. Make small sacrifices now. Missing a party to study? It’ll be worth it.”

He also shares a saying he passes on to his children: "Nerds are the cool adults." Lacey continues: “Whether in sports, music, teaching, or entrepreneurship, those who are passionate about their craft are the ones who make a difference.”

His advice: "Whatever your field, be passionate about it. Master it inside and out. That's how you create something extraordinary."

Lacey never imagined settling in Idaho. And yet, he fell in love. "Idaho is one of our country's hidden gems," he says. Today, he is living that dream as a public servant, mentor, father, and changemaker. His experience at ISU provided him with the education, confidence, and community that helped him achieve his American dream.