ALBANY—The 205th class of the New York State Police Academy graduated on Wednesday, May 10, adding 192 officers to New York State Police Troops around the state. Of the seven local graduates, two distinguished themselves with special honors during the graduation ceremony held at Empire State Plaza.
Trooper Meghan K. Lohman, a 31-year-old resident of Delmar, received the Academic Achievement Award for “attainment of the highest level of academic performance during Academy training.”
A graduate of Siena College with a bachelor’s degree in history, Lohman was a paralegal with a local law firm prior to joining the New York State Police program. Throughout the Academy training program, she achieved an outstanding overall academic average of 98.1 percent. Lohman has been assigned to Troop G, in Latham.
“It’s been a long time coming,” said Lohman in a video-taped interview. “But, at the same time, these six months have just flown by.” She said one of the most difficult things about the training process was the loss of normal daily support systems like family.
“I’m looking forward to finding out what I’m good at and pursuing that,” said Lohman. “Whether that be drug interdiction or V&T or even the Sergeant/Lieutenant track. I’m just really excited about all the different opportunities I’m going to have.”
Trooper Joseph A. Turoski, a 29-year-old resident of Voorheesville, received the Student Representative Award, sponsored by the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association, as the class member “who is selected by his or her peers to represent them during these exercises.”
Being away from his wife and three children, said Turoski in his own interview, was the hardest part about the six-month program. “Although it was necessary for the training,” he said, adding, “I think I’ve made them very proud.”
“Going out on the road,” he said. “I’m most looking forward to learning from my Field Training Officer and superior officers.” Turoski said that he hopes to develop his own sense of identity on the job and learn how to best help the communities he serves.
Lohman and Turoski each received a firearm along with their award.
Other local graduates include: Brittany L. Vogel of Glenmont; Frank A. McDonagh of Coeymans; Stephanie L. O’Neil of Selkirk; Curtis C. Rich of Delmar; and Sergey L. Pisarenko of Glenmont. Vogel, McDonagh and O’Neil have been assigned to Troop F, while Rich and Pisarenko have both been assigned to Troop NYC.
“These new Troopers have dedicated themselves to protecting the people of New York State,” said Governor Andrew Cuomo. “I commend these men and women for their hard work over the last 26 weeks and wish them luck as they start their careers and continue the fine tradition of the New York State Police. Our state is safer with these members joining the ranks and enforcing our laws.”
“Today marks another significant moment in the proud 100 year history of the New York State Police,” said NYSP Superintendent George P. Beach II. “The graduation ceremony is one of our finest traditions and introduces a new generation of highly trained men and women, who will serve the citizens of the State of New York with honor and integrity. I am proud to welcome these graduates to our ranks.”