For J.R. Kirkpatrick ’13, a career dedicated to serving others began with the example set by his father and was strengthened by the education and experiences he received at Concordia Lutheran High School.
During his time at CLHS, Kirkpatrick was involved in JROTC, the crew team and the lacrosse team. He also played hockey for Northrop High School. He credits the education he received at Concordia, along with the variety of classes and programs offered, with giving him a head start as he began his professional career. He also believes those opportunities helped instill in him a desire to serve others.
Shortly after graduating from Concordia in 2013, Kirkpatrick joined the U.S. Army Military Police Corps and left for basic training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). He later attended Ivy Tech Community College, where he earned his EMT certification before continuing his education to become a paramedic. He also attended the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.
Today, Kirkpatrick serves as a sheriff’s deputy. His typical day involves responding to 911 calls, assisting citizens and spending significant time searching for impaired drivers. His decision to pursue a career in public service was influenced heavily by his father, who was a police officer and combat medic in the U.S. Army before becoming a paramedic and, most recently, a registered nurse. Kirkpatrick also credits the support of his entire family for helping him reach where he is today.
His career has provided him with opportunities to serve in several capacities. Kirkpatrick is a captain and training officer for his local volunteer fire department, and he has also worked part time as a paramedic. As a sheriff’s deputy, he received the 2024 Traffic Safety All Pro Award for his success in impaired driving enforcement.
Kirkpatrick is also one of the first law enforcement phlebotomists in Indiana and serves as a law enforcement phlebotomy instructor.
Looking back on his journey, Kirkpatrick encourages current Concordia students to set goals and pursue them with determination.
“Set a goal. Then do everything in your power to achieve it. Once that goal is completed, do it all over again.”
Kirkpatrick’s favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 6:8: “Here am I. Send me.”