The Michigan State Police (MSP) held their annual ceremony in East Lansing to honor employees for their dedicated service. Among them were current and former members who exhibited an outstanding commitment to the community and their duties.
Director Col. James F. Grady II praised the honorees for showing "outstanding dedication" to the residents of Michigan, highlighting their "excellence, integrity and positivity" according to the Michigan State Police news release, Tpr. Adam Whited from the Houghton Lake Post was named the 2024 Trooper of the Year. He was recognized for his professionalism and community involvement, which included finding a missing 81-year-old woman and organizing numerous charitable events and family activities for his colleagues.
Steve Frizzell was honored as the 2024 Motor Carrier Officer of the Year for leading in Level I inspections and serving on the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance's operational policy committee, as well as being involved in local youth activities as a coach and medic in the civilian ranks, Ms. Pam Strobel earned Civilian of the Year acknowledgment for her human resources development work and mentoring role at MSP. She was noted for her voluntary contributions at the Mitten Misfits Rescue Farm and Lasagna Love initiative.
Retiree of the Year went to Sgt. Barbara Soffin, Ret., who, despite retiring in 2019, continued to engage deeply with The Child Advocacy Center of Lapeer County and organized a regular blood drive following a family tragedy. In addition, she has raised money for various organizations through her involvement with the Steel Patriots Motorcycle Club. The agency also recognized the West Branch Post with the Community Policing Outstanding Achievement Award for its innovative Food Truck Challenge, which successfully engaged the community in combating hunger by distributing 20,000 pounds of food.
Furthermore, Sgt. Ashley Miller of the Gaylord Post was presented with the Colonel Kriste Kibbey Etue Community Impact Award for her extensive work in community service, creating a sensory room for students and leading the State Trooper Outreach Partnership initiative, having raised significant funds through various events to support local programs and needs, according to the Michigan State Police release.
