Drexel University’s Department of Public Safety held its annual Induction and Awards Ceremony Oct. 3 to celebrate achievements within the department this year and induct their newest officer, Charles Lashley.
“This event has special significance because it gives us the rare opportunity to come together as a community to recognize acts of dedication, accomplishment and bravery,” Domenic Ceccanecchio, senior associate vice president of Public Safety, said.
Over 24 police officers, AlliedBarton security officers and telecommunications members were awarded for their work intercepting robberies, burglaries and assaults at Monday’s ceremony. One awarded officer, Daniel Quigley, was notably absent, having been injured while apprehending a man suspected of bike theft last weekend. Quigley suffered a broken hand during the pursuit.
“[We’re here to] collectively share a moment of appreciation for the service that our public safety professional staff selflessly provides visibly and behind the scenes,” Ceccanecchio explained.
Among the awarded officers were two Drexel Police officers credited with saving a man who attempted to commit suicide by jumping into the Schuylkill River. In addition, two other officers were awarded for assisting a Northside Dining Terrace employee with a medical emergency.
Jim Tucker, senior vice president of Student Life and Administrative Services, commended the work of the DPS.
“I know you’re out there 24/7,” he said, speaking to the officers. “It’s nice to know the campus is safer and more secure because you’re there.”
Public Safety Accreditation and Training Manager Stratis Skoufalos was the master of ceremonies at the event, acknowledging promotions within the department and presenting awards in front of an audience of DPS officers, their families, and Drexel staff and students.
Other notable attendees included President John A. Fry and USGA President Adam Trosko, who presented USGA Public Safety Awards to officers James Campbell and Atbiaw Gobezie.
Fry spoke briefly at the ceremony, calling DPS members “selfless, courageous people devoted to keeping [the Drexel community] safe.”
“I am really struck by the professionalism and level of dignity that this force shows,” he continued.
Director of Operations Joseph Spera received two awards at the ceremony, including a certificate of appreciation for leadership and a Unit Recognition Award, which he accepted on behalf of his operations unit.
Another awarded DPS member was Allied Barton Administrative Assistant Patrice Parham, who received a certificate of appreciation. Ceccanecchio presented the Years of Service Recognition Award to Armour Floyd, director of Fire and Life Safety, for 20 years of service to the University.