Department of Public Safety

The Department of Public Safety Division of Corrections held a Graduation Ceremony at its Training and Program Center on Friday, Feb. 24.  The first graduating class of 2012 consisted of 17 graduates, who successfully completed the six-week program.  

Speakers included Patrick Schommer, Detention Superintendent; Leonard Edwards, Detention Superintendent' Charles Bryson, then-Director of Public Safety and Captain Nita Curd, Mistress of Ceremony.  

Special guest was retired Lieutenant Jerry Anderson, in honor of whom the class was dedicated.  Anderson served many dedicated years in the Division of Corrections and was a friend, colleague and mentor to his co-workers.

The highlight of the ceremony was the administering of the oath by City Register Parrie May, followed by the pinning of Officers badges by Major Irene Mitchell and the distribution of Certificates by Major Tonya Harry, as family and friends proudly watched the proceedings unfold.

Ms. Kathryn Wright, Training Instructor, made special certificate presentations to Officer Marcus Cotton and Officer Damion Smith.  The certificates recognized their successful completion of The National Institution of Corrections Direct Supervision Instructor Course.

Finally, Class Speaker Officer Robert Nesbitt made a special plaque presentation to Charles Bryson, thanking him for his support of City employees who also serve as soldiers in the Army Reserve.  Nesbitt is part of a small Battalion of Drill Sergeants, 334th Regiment, USAR.

Congratulations to our newest Correctional Officers!

Department of Public Safety

City of St. Louis