However, while working his way through college, he met two police officers who told him about a tuition break he would receive if he attended the police academy. He signed up and was captivated by police work. His dedication to public safety motivated him to keep taking on more important leadership roles. He was the police commissioner of Washington, D.C., before Mayor Michael Nutter asked him to come to Philadelphia. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden have turned to Commissioner Ramsey for his advice on gun safety. Even though he is a busy man, Commissioner Ramsey exercises by walking wherever he can. He begins each day with a bowl of oatmeal as part of a healthy breakfast. To handle the stress of his job, he says, he tries to focus just on the task or decision that is needed at any particular moment. Similarly, he urges young people to stay focused and follow their dreams. “The best advice I can give is to stay in school, get a good education, and take care of your families,” says Commissioner Ramsey. —By Healthy Hope staff Hope Partnership for Education Illustration by Rebekah Wilford, East Norriton Bulldog Bulletin