Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

Dedication

This biography is lovingly dedicated to the pillars of strength, support, and unwavering love—Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s family. To his wife, whose endless encouragement and understanding were the foundation on which he built his dreams. Your love and partnership have been his greatest inspiration. To his children, whose laughter, curiosity, and zest for life have kept him grounded, reminding him of the importance of balancing work and family. You are his pride and joy.

And to the entire Yourey family, whose warmth, loyalty, and belief in his vision have helped him navigate through the many chapters of his life. This book stands as a testament to the love and sacrifice you’ve all made together.For without your steadfast love and support, none of this would have been possible. Thank you for being his constant source of strength. This story is as much yours as it is his.

 

PHASE 1: Beginnings – A Humble Start

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out."-Robert Collier

Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s journey to success did not begin in the grand, illustrious corridors of academic institutions or in prestigious boardrooms. Instead, his story is a testament to the value of perseverance, hard work, and resilience in the face of adversity. It begins in the most unexpected of places—a modest bouncer post at Rumors nightclub in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, in 1993.

In the early 1990s, Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II found himself navigating a world far removed from the future he envisioned. The nightclub, a place where the world’s distractions and chaos converged, became his first real taste of responsibility. The job, though far from glamorous, would serve as the foundation upon which his life and career would be built. He would also serve his country for 4 years in the United States Marine Corps as a grunt, further cementing that foundation.

Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s role as a security guard at the nightclub was a humble starting point—one that many might view as a stepping stone, but one he would embrace fully. It was not a job that came with high status or instant gratification. Yet, it was a pivotal chapter in his personal development.

As a security guard, Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II faced the tough realities of working in an environment that could often become chaotic, sometimes even dangerous. His responsibilities went beyond just keeping watch over the venue; he was tasked with ensuring the safety of everyone who entered the club, managing potentially volatile situations, and diffusing conflicts before they escalated.

These were not easy tasks, and Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II was often faced with moments of high tension, where the pressure to act swiftly and wisely weighed heavily on his shoulders. Each night, as he stood vigilant, observing human behaviour in its rawest form, Eugene learned critical lessons that would shape his future.

One of the most valuable lessons he absorbed was the art of conflict resolution. In the nightclub, emotions often ran high, and the atmosphere could shift from celebratory to hostile in the blink of an eye. Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II became skilled at reading people—recognizing the signs of escalating tension long before they became confrontations. He learned to approach situations with calmness and clarity, focusing on de-escalation techniques and using his communication skills to diffuse potential threats.

These skills, often honed through trial and error, were not only practical for his job but would become crucial tools in his career as a leader and decision-maker in the future.

PHASE 2: The Path of Education – The Pursuit of Knowledge

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

For many, the path to success is paved with opportunity, connections, or sheer luck. For Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II, however, the road to success was built with the bricks of perseverance, self-discipline, and an unwavering thirst for knowledge. His journey from the nightclub security guard post to academic excellence is nothing short of remarkable. It is a testament to his belief that education is the most powerful tool at his disposal—one that would allow him to change not only his life but also the world around him.

Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s pursuit of higher education began in earnest in 2008, when he made the decision to enroll at Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Alabama. At this point in his life, Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II had already gained a wealth of practical life experience, but he knew that if he were to truly transform his future, he needed the foundation that only a formal education could provide.

Despite the challenges that came with balancing his education alongside his professional responsibilities, Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II approached his studies with the same diligence and commitment that had guided him through his earlier years.

His hard work quickly paid off when, in 2012, he graduated with an Associate Degree, achieving Summa Cum Laude honours with a perfect 4.0 GPA. This achievement was not just a reflection of his academic abilities—it was a direct result of his deep commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.

For Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II, the academic journey was not just about grades; it was about developing a deep understanding of the subjects that piqued his interest and challenged his mind. His time as a security guard, where quick thinking and learning from experience were paramount, had equipped him with the skills to approach his studies with the same proactive, disciplined mindset.

Graduating Summa Cum Laude was no small feat. It demonstrated Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s ability to apply the same focus and determination that had served him in his past roles—whether as a security guard or in other capacities—to his academic pursuits. His time at Columbia Southern University laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong journey of learning and self-improvement. Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II didn’t just aim for excellence; he lived it, ensuring that every assignment, every exam, and every class was an opportunity to grow.

However, Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s thirst for knowledge didn’t stop at an associate degree. His success inspired him to continue his academic journey, and in 2014, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, with a Minor in Computer Internet Technology. Graduating Magna Cum Laude was yet another testament to Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s unrelenting drive.

But more than the honours and accolades, this degree marked a turning point in Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s life. It opened new doors—not only in terms of career opportunities but also in terms of the impact he knew he could have on society. The study of criminal justice and the role of technology in law enforcement intrigued him, sparking a desire to delve deeper into these fields.


PHASE 3: Career in Law Enforcement – Making a Difference

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”– Mahatma Gan

Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II’s career in law enforcement was more than just a job; it was a calling that allowed him to truly make a difference in the lives of others. From his early days as a patrolman to his specialized work as a drug investigator, Dr. Yourey’s commitment to serving his community became the cornerstone of his professional life. He didn’t just enforce laws—he used his unique skills and growing expertise to protect, educate, and uplift those around him.

Dr. Yourey’s entry into law enforcement began when he became a patrolman for multiple police departments, including Orwigsburg, St. Clair, and Minersville. These early years served as his training ground, where he learned the fundamental aspects of policing: enforcing criminal and vehicle laws, prosecuting court cases, and conducting investigations. While many officers spend years learning the ropes, Dr. Yourey demonstrated an innate understanding of the job’s complexities. His passion for justice and commitment to his community shone through as he applied himself to every task with dedication.

One of the most impactful aspects of Dr. Yourey’s early career was his exposure to the real-world intricacies of criminal justice. Policing was no longer just about enforcing the law—it was about understanding human behaviour, navigating the delicate balance between authority and empathy, and ensuring that the justice system worked for everyone. As Dr. Yourey moved through different departments and gained experience, he began to realize that he had a natural talent for investigation and criminal behaviour analysis. His ability to dissect complex cases, spot key details, and make sound decisions under pressure set him apart from many of his peers.

As his career progressed, Dr. Yourey’s talents became more apparent. His appointment as a drug investigator with the Pottsville Police Bureau marked a turning point in his career. This position allowed him to specialize in narcotics-related cases, a field where precision and quick decision-making were paramount. Dr. Yourey’s role involved investigating drug trafficking, identifying criminal networks, and gathering evidence to dismantle illegal operations.

It was in these high-pressure situations that Dr. Yourey truly flourished. His ability to remain calm under pressure, analyze information quickly, and think critically made him an invaluable asset to the department.

The intricacies of narcotics investigations required Dr. Yourey to not only rely on his instincts but also on his ever-growing knowledge of criminal behaviour and the law. He was often required to navigate difficult and dangerous situations, where the stakes were high, and the risks were tangible. Yet, Dr. Yourey faced these challenges with unwavering determination. He understood that his work could have a profound impact on the community, and this motivated him to give his best every day. His work was often the difference between success and failure in cases that had far-reaching consequences for individuals and the safety of the community as a whole.

Dr. Yourey’s expertise in narcotics cases didn’t go unnoticed. His work was so thorough and his insights so invaluable that he was called upon to serve as an expert witness in both district and Commonwealth courts. This recognition as a subject matter expert in the field of narcotics made Dr. Yourey a key figure in the criminal justice system, further solidifying his role as a trusted professional in law enforcement. His testimony helped shape the outcomes of critical cases, and he was relied upon for his accurate and professional assessments of drug-related crimes.

Beyond his specialized work in narcotics, Dr. Yourey’s role as a public housing liaison officer further expanded his influence and allowed him to address issues that were central to his community’s well-being. In this capacity, Dr. Yourey worked diligently to combat fraud, criminal activity, and tenant evictions within public housing complexes. He understood that the stability of housing was a key factor in maintaining a safe and secure community. He took pride in being able to work closely with residents, administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure that the integrity of public housing was protected.

 

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny”

- Dr. Eugene Michael Yourey II