MARK D. HESSLER
Grand Rapids,MI
Summary
Federal law enforcement executive with 26 years of service as a Deputy U.S. Marshal and extensive experience collaborating with senior government officials, federal agencies, and congressional offices. Skilled in managing sensitive issues, coordinating intergovernmental initiatives, briefing stakeholders, and building strategic relationships. Recognized for professionalism, sound judgment, and effective representation of organizational interests in high-visibility environments.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Henry Semester - Washington, D.C. Coordinator
Calvin University (40+ Hours/Week)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
07.2023 - Current
- Cultivate relationships with more than 11 congressional offices, resulting in five annual student placements and expanded internship and educational opportunities supporting experiential learning objectives.
- Coordinate with members of Congress, committee staff, executive branch agencies, think tanks, and government affairs organizations to establish and maintain strategic partnerships.
- Engage monthly with congressional offices to facilitate collaboration, exchange information, and identify emerging priorities and opportunities to support successful program outcomes.
- Evaluate student congressional placements and communicate program modifications to ensure alignment with Henry Semester objectives, experiential learning outcomes, and partner expectations.
Professor / Associate Director
Calvin University (40+ Hours/Week)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
07.2021 - Current
- Develop and deliver undergraduate instruction in public policy and government, engaging students in analysis of legislative processes, intergovernmental relations, public administration and public sector governance.
- Serve as Associate Director of the Pre-Law Program, mentoring over 50 students pursuing careers in law, government, and public service while fostering relationships with legal professionals and elected officials.
- Monitor legislative and public policy developments affecting government institutions and integrate emerging trends into academic and professional development programs.
Deputy U.S. Marshal / Acting Supervisory (GS-13/7)
United States Marshals Service (45+ Hours/Week)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
03.1995 - 09.2021
- Served in supervisory leadership assignments over a nine year period, advising senior management on complex and sensitive operational, security, and policy matters affecting district priorities, personnel, and mission execution.
- Directed the deployment of 15+ Deputy U.S. Marshals and contract security personnel while coordinating with judicial officials and stakeholders to ensure effective protection, risk mitigation, and operational continuity.
- Served as the principal point of contact for federal agencies, senior government officials, and congressional offices regarding sensitive and high-profile security matters, public inquiries, and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
- Cultivated and maintained relationships with congressional staff, providing information on U.S. Marshals Service programs and activities throughout Western Michigan, and connected inquiries with the National Congressional Affairs Office.
- Built and sustained collaborative partnerships with Michigan county elected officials, along with federal, state, and local agencies, facilitating security information sharing, coordinating interagency threat initiatives, and advancing organizational objectives.
- Served as District Security Program Manager for the Western District of Michigan, overseeing security programs across 3 facilities and supporting more 25+ personnel. Advised leadership on policy implementation, security initiatives, and operational priorities. Prepared and delivered security briefings for agency leadership and Department of Justice (DOJ) stakeholders.
Education
Master of Public Administration (MPA) - Public Management
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI05-1999
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI12-1993
Timeline
Henry Semester - Washington, D.C. Coordinator
Calvin University (40+ Hours/Week)
07.2023 - Current
Professor / Associate Director
Calvin University (40+ Hours/Week)
07.2021 - Current
Deputy U.S. Marshal / Acting Supervisory (GS-13/7)
United States Marshals Service (45+ Hours/Week)
03.1995 - 09.2021
Master of Public Administration (MPA) - Public Management
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Grand Valley State University
Board Service
Kent County Community Corrections Advisory Board | January 2025–Present
Direct community corrections initiatives to reduce prison commitments and improve public safety outcomes.
East Grand Rapids Schools Board of Education | January 2014–December 2020