Before beginning their careers serving and protecting the public, 28 cadets graduating from Montgomery County Community College’s Municipal Police Academy said a final goodbye to one another.

The College celebrated Class 2301 with a ceremony on the Blue Bell Campus, June 14. Fifteen cadets have been hired already by area police departments and wore their uniforms to the ceremony.

Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin R. Steele delivered a message of support and best wishes to the graduating class.

“How you act, how you carry yourself and how you treat all people during every interaction holds tremendous, tremendous significance,” said Steele. “When I say it matters, please mark my words. It matters.” Kyle Longacre, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development, said Montgomery County is filled with residents who make the community great.

Five cadets were recognized for top achievements among of the Class 2301.

Cadet Robert Giantonio, Class 2301 Valedictorian, congratulated his fellow graduates on all they’d accomplished during their time in the academy.

Scott McGowan, on behalf of the McGowan family, presented the $2,500 Chief John J. McGowan III Memorial Scholarship to Cadet Jacob Hennessy. The McGowan family started the scholarship fund in memory of their husband/father, Chief John J. McGowan, III, who died in a motorcycle accident in 2010.

The scholarship is awarded annually to a cadet who has completed the program and is financing his or her tuition and has been helpful to many cadets over the years.

Daniel Czaplicki, of the Quest for the Best Foundation, awarded Cadets Robert Giantonio and Colby Goldsmith with a $$3,436 Quest for the Best Scholarship Award.

The AT&T Foundation Public Safety Scholarship benefits first responders and the public safety community. Ten cadets from Class 2301 were given a $1,000 scholarship.

Whitpain Township Police Association also awarded Cadet Alexander Moyer with a $1,000 scholarship for exemplary performance.

Montgomery County Community College Blue Bell Campus.