After six months of intensive training, 919 hours of instruction, and 26 examinations, 41 Montgomery County Community College Municipal Police Academy cadets stood together one final time before beginning careers dedicated to protecting and serving their communities.
The graduates of Class 2601 were celebrated during a June 10 commencement ceremony at MCCC’s Blue Bell Campus, where more than 700 family members, friends, and supporters gathered to honor the milestone.
For many graduates, the next chapter is already underway. Twenty-four cadets entered the Academy with sponsorship from local police departments, including nine future members of the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office. Another 11 graduates secured conditional employment offers before completing the program.
The class was scheduled to take the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission certification exam on June 11, the final step toward becoming sworn law enforcement officers.
Since 1973, Montgomery County Community College’s Municipal Police Academy has prepared more than 4,100 cadets for careers in law enforcement, maintaining a graduation rate of more than 90 percent.
Building the Next Generation of Law Enforcement Leaders
The Academy’s demanding curriculum is designed to prepare recruits for the realities of modern policing, requiring dedication, discipline, and resilience from the first day of training through graduation.
Kelly Strunk, Temporary Dean of Business and Professional Studies, congratulated the graduates and reminded them that law enforcement is ultimately a profession rooted in service.
“You are trusted with the safety of your communities, day and night, on weekends and holidays,” Strunk said. “You’re asked to remain resilient in the face of challenges. You understand the sacrifices this profession demands, and yet you chose to be here, dedicating yourselves to the safety and well-being of others.”
Academy Director Georgette Hill, ’86, reflected on the commitment required to complete the program, noting that cadets undergo a rigorous selection process before beginning nearly 1,000 hours of training.
“You cadets were up to the challenge,” Hill said. “I’m so proud of you.”
As graduates prepare to enter the profession, Hill encouraged them to continue developing their skills while treating every member of the public with respect and dignity.
“We are here to do good. We are here to stop bad, and we are here to help people,” she said.
A Badge Earned Through Commitment and Character
Several speakers emphasized that the badge graduates will wear represents more than authority—it represents responsibility, trust, and accountability.
Montgomery County Deputy District Attorney Kelly Lloyd reminded graduates that compassion and professionalism remain essential qualities in law enforcement.
“Respect is not weakness. Compassion is not weakness,” Lloyd said. “Wear the badge proudly, but humbly.”
Class valedictorian Derek Smith reflected on the responsibility shared by every member of the graduating class and the impact officers can have on the lives of those they serve.
“The reason we put on the badge is to make a positive difference in the world around us,” Smith said. “Every decision we make in this line of work has the potential to be picked apart and judged. Those decisions may alter the lives of those we serve and can be made in a matter of seconds. Yet we must respond to every call ready to act.”
Guest speaker Sgt. Troy Senne of the Abington Township Police Department praised the graduates for persevering through the Academy’s rigorous training program.
“Today marks more than a graduation,” Senne said. “It marks a commitment to the most noble and rewarding profession.”
Honoring Outstanding Achievement
The ceremony also recognized cadets who distinguished themselves through exceptional leadership, dedication, physical fitness, and professional growth.
Cadet Zachary Pellechia received the Sgt. James R. Miller Marksmanship Award for achieving the highest score during firearms training. Pellechia also received the Chief John J. McGowan III Memorial Scholarship Award, a $2,500 scholarship established in memory of the former MCCC Instructor and Police Chief.
Cadet Brianna Knowles received the Platoon Leader Merit Award, recognizing outstanding leadership, commitment, and work ethic throughout the Academy.
Cadet Anthony Woodlock received the Award of Distinction, presented to the cadet who best exemplifies dedication and teamwork.
Cadet Jair Robinson earned both the Cpl. Brian Kozera Physical Fitness Award and the Professional Development Award for his commitment to physical excellence and overall personal growth during training.
Cadets Anders Kjendal and Brianna Knowles each received a $6,887 Quest for the Best Scholarship Award, covering the full cost of their Academy tuition.
Continuing a Legacy of Service
The graduates of Class 2601 now join a network of more than 4,100 Municipal Police Academy alumni serving communities throughout Montgomery County, Southeastern Pennsylvania, and beyond.
MCCC’s Municipal Police Academy is certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission and offers graduates the opportunity to articulate up to 15 credits toward an associate degree in Criminal Justice.
For individuals interested in careers in law enforcement, public safety, or criminal justice, Montgomery County Community College offers programs designed to build the knowledge, leadership skills, and professional training needed to make an impact in their communities.
To learn more about the Municipal Police Academy, Criminal Justice programs, and workforce-focused educational opportunities, visit Montgomery County Community College.
