Feb 25, 2016
From left, Christian Douglas, Robert Vasquez and Jacqueline Cooper.

College of the Mainland Police Chief Sylvia Chapa recognized seven employees and promoted Sgt. Rodney Myers to lieutenant at a recent ceremony.

For self-motivation and outstanding service, Meyers was named Officer of the Year, an award given for the first time since 2010. Meyers also earned commendations for responding to a medical incident and for apprehending a thief in the COM Library.

“He is outstanding. He initiates a lot of projects himself,” said Chapa.

In addition, Officer Vanessa Walker received a commendation, an award for outstanding service and a community service award for answering a call to a nearby neighborhood and rescuing ducklings scattered after their mother was killed. She also received a certificate of recognition for running background checks for COM Human Resources Department.

Officer Vernette Jones received a commendation for life safety, and Vernon Ewell received a commendation for physical security checks when he found a potential security breach. Officer Daniel Aue received a commendation for arrest, and Officer Jeff Homan received a certificate of recognition for research on the department’s evidence organization project. Lt. Jill Hamm received certificates of recognition for assisting in the department’s report-writing process and researching new radios for the department.

“I feel it’s really important to recognize officers when they do well. Those who are going above and beyond deserve it,” said Chapa.

Chapa also swore in full-time officers Robert Vasquez and Jacqueline Cooper and part-time officer Christian Douglas, a COM Basic Peace Officer Academy graduate.

This was COM’s second swearing-in ceremony, which Chapa initiated after she became chief in 2015.

“There was a sense of pride and brotherhood in law enforcement to be recognized in a ceremony for the first time. They have worked hard to wear the badge,” said Chapa.

Chapa also recognized COM President Beth Lewis for unwavering support and leadership of the campus police department.