Nuvision Heroes: Honoring Sean Keating, Anchorage Police Department

Sean’s journey into law enforcement wasn’t your typical story. As a young man, he was inspired by a close friend’s father, an Alaska State Trooper. Seeing the impact his friend’s dad had on the community, Sean knew he wanted to do something meaningful with his life. “I witnessed him pull a driver from a pretty bad car wreck once, and it stuck with me. I thought, ‘That’s something I want to do.” That moment set him on the path to join the Anchorage Police Department, where he has been serving ever since.

Throughout his career, Sean has handled everything from parking violations to violent crimes, always maintaining the balance between the gravity of serious crimes and the everyday needs of the community. As he puts it, “One minute you’re on a scene where someone just lost their life, and the next, you’re responding to a call about a teenager acting out at home. You have to stay focused, no matter what comes your way.” That ability to handle any situation is what makes Sean a trusted and respected leader on his team.

Sean’s role is more than just responding to calls—he is also a Field Training Officer, responsible for mentoring new recruits. He’s trained over 50 officers, ensuring that the next generation of law enforcement has the guidance and support they need. “Nobody comes into this job knowing everything. I remember the challenges I faced starting out, so I try to be there for them, show them that there’s more than one way to handle things, and help them grow into the job.”

Beyond his work on the force, Sean is deeply committed to giving back to the community. One of his favorite efforts is leading the “Angel Tree” program at the Anchorage Police Department. The program provides gifts for children experiencing homelessness, and Sean has grown it from helping 100 kids to over 200 in recent years. “Seeing the kids’ faces light up when we deliver bags of toys, especially when you know they have almost nothing—it’s just incredible. That’s why we keep doing it, year after year.”

Sean’s impact goes beyond the badge. He’s not only saved lives, earning multiple Life Saving Awards, but also changed lives through small acts of kindness. He recalled one memorable moment when he saved a child from choking, and years later, ran into the same family at Costco. “They told the kid the whole story, how I helped save his life, and they hugged me right there in the store. My daughter got to see it, and that made me proud. That’s why we do what we do.”

Sean’s dedication, compassion, and leadership have made a lasting difference in Anchorage. Whether it’s through his work on the streets or his volunteer efforts with programs like Shop with a Cop and Anchorage Cops for Community, he continues to make an impact every day.

As we celebrate Sean Keating this month, we’re reminded that real heroes don’t seek the spotlight—they simply do the work. Sean’s commitment to serving his community, mentoring his fellow officers, and making a difference in the lives of others is what makes him a true Nuvision Hero.