A shared mission at HCC: Two brothers, one dream, ready to serve

When brothers Dyllan Roundy, 25, and William Roundy, 31, graduate from Houston City College's (HCC) Police Academy Class 25E this summer, they will celebrate more than completing a rigorous law enforcement training program. They will celebrate a journey that brought them one step closer to fulfilling a commitment to public service they pursued side by side.

Graduating together carries special significance for the brothers, who were raised by their mother and learned early in life to depend on one another. That bond helped guide them through the challenges of balancing work, family responsibilities and the demands of the academy.

The brothers enrolled in the evening program at the HCC Northeast Campus while maintaining full-time jobs and supporting their families. The decision came after Dyllan encouraged William to take the next step in his public service career.

William's law enforcement journey began with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Later, both brothers worked in security for the Harris County Courts. When William learned he was expecting another child, Dyllan encouraged him to pursue new opportunities.

"When my brother found out my son was coming, he convinced me to join him in taking the next step toward my career," William said.

Just two weeks before classes began, both brothers learned their work schedules would conflict with academy training. Determined to stay on course, they made career changes to stay committed to their goal of becoming police officers.

Dyllan joined the Livingston Police Department while commuting to Houston for classes, and William transitioned to a security position at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

"We saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and here we are about to graduate," William said.

Throughout the 10-month program, the brothers relied on each other for support and motivation, helping each other stay focused through long workdays, family responsibilities and late-night study sessions.

"Determination. You have to see things through," William said. "There were a lot of long nights. You have to be patient to get where you want to go. Ten months of working and studying teaches you that there's a bigger picture."

For Dyllan, the experience reinforced the value of patience and staying engaged in the learning process.

"Even if you do not understand it now, everything is a lesson," he said. "I learned how to slow down, stay physically ready, and be patient."

For William, earning his certification is also about setting an example for the next generation.

"This is something for my two sons to look up to," he said. "My four-year-old already says he wants to become a police officer."

Both brothers credit the HCC academy’s supportive learning environment and dedicated faculty for helping them succeed.

"Our class is family-oriented," William said. "The instructors are well respected. Even our small conversations and interactions have an impact."

William also praised Instructor Catheryn Gardner, affectionately known among cadets as "Momma."

"She takes care of us but shows us tough love. I respect her a lot."

Dyllan shared a similar sentiment for the academy’s faculty.

"Lt. Richard Hernandez is awesome," he said. "They stick with you through every course. We had a great support system."

Following graduation, Dyllan plans to continue serving with the Livingston Police Department, while William will pursue opportunities with law enforcement agencies in the Houston area.

Both credit HCC’s Basic Peace officer program and its instructors for helping prepare them for careers in public safety.

Their advice for anyone considering the program is simple: "Take that leap."

"It's easy to get complacent in one job, but you want to do more in your career," Dyllan said.

William added, "Do not get comfortable. Keep going. I always wanted more, but I didn't let my life deter me from doing it."

As they prepare to begin their next chapter of their careers, the Roundy brothers leave HCC with more than a certification. Their story is a reminder that with determination, support and a willingness to take the next step, it’s possible to build a brighter future—together.

For more information on the HCC Basic Peace Officer program, call 713.718.8300 or visit hccs.edu.