Inside News

FGCU police officer is recognized for his heroic actions

November 03, 2025 

On Aug. 7, university guest Peter Vanleeuwen suffered a cardiac arrest on campus. Due to the swift actions of FGCU police officer Gene Raphael and a university guest who administered CPR and used an automated external defibrillator, Peter Vanleeuwen survived. Officer Raphael was formally recognized by the university with a Life Saving Award.

FGCU police officer Gene Raphael is wearing a dark blue police uniform and is standing next to Peter Vanleeuwen who has his hand on Gene’s shoulder. Peter is wearing a grey shirt, khaki pants and a watch. Gene is holding an award in the shape of a badge. Both standing in front a white wall with the FGCU logo – the words “Florida Guld Coast in blue and the word “University” in green. The logo has the cartoon image of the head of an eagle pointing to the right. It has a green eye and a gold beak. The head appears on top of the word “Coast”.

FGCU police officer Gene Raphael and Peter Vanleeuwen