St. Petersburg College Allstate Campus hosted its’ 198th graduation for their Police Academy. On the evening of December 9th, 2015 at 6pm in the Florida Room, 21 cadets graduated. For the first time since PRC #175, the number of graduates was the same as the number who began the course. It takes a lot of diligence, dedication, and teamwork to graduate 100% of your class – and PRC#198 had it!

The ceremony, lead by coordinator Paul Andrews, recognized the esteemed members from local police agencies in attendance, the junior police recruit class (PRC) who began their role as the senior class on Thursday morning, and supportive family and friends – without whom, graduation for many cadets would have been unlikely.

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Shaylin Santana, Brittany Herr, and Diana Glavnik. Invocation was given by Ashley Mehler. Justin Feliciano (pictured right), chosen by his classmates for this honor, delivered a heartwarming class address outlining some of the best times the class had, some of the worst (notably pepper spray), and the camaraderie that held them together through it all.

Many students received awards for their physical and intellectual achievements throughout the 21 week academy. Including Ashley Mehler (pictured left) for high scholarly achievement and Peter Michaelson (pictured right) who received an award from instructors for his overall success in the program and ability to encourage and uplift his classmates. Coordinator Andrews explained to the audience that each day of the academy, cadets would recite the code of ethics and invited Ashley Mehler, Brian Wells, and Peter Michaelson to the state to lead their class in the recitation, followed by a benediction by Ashley Mehler. After being guided by their Instructor for a final fall-out, the class and crowd erupted in joyful yells, hugs, and tears by some.

The Allstate campus wishes the graduates well as they prepare for their state exams and eventual careers as officers of the law. If you are interested in learning more about the Police Academy, please see our website or contact one of knowledgeable advisors.

For more information on events happening on the Allstate Campus, please see our Student Activities webpage or our Facebook page.