MADISON, FL –North Florida College proudly celebrated the graduation of Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Academy Class 45-2025-3016-1 on February 26 at the North Florida College Public Safety Academy. The ceremony honored a group of graduates who have completed intensive training and are now prepared to serve Florida communities through careers dedicated to public safety.
Surrounded by family, friends, faculty and public safety leaders, the graduates were
recognized for their commitment to a profession built on responsibility, integrity
and service to others. Correctional officers play an essential role in maintaining
safe communities, protecting fellow officers and ensuring the supervision and care
of those within Florida’s correctional system.
The graduating class adopted the motto “We Will, When Others Won’t,” a reflection of the courage and determination required to step into a career that
often demands sacrifice in service of the public good.
During the ceremony, graduates reaffirmed their commitment through the Oath of Allegiance,
pledging to uphold the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Florida
and to faithfully carry out their duties with professionalism and respect.
North Florida College President Dr. Jennifer Page welcomed guests and congratulated
the class, highlighting the importance of workforce training programs that prepare
individuals to serve their communities.
Rick Davis, Director of the North Florida College Public Safety Academy, praised the
graduates for their perseverance and sense of purpose. “Each of these graduates chose
a path of service that requires courage, discipline, and integrity,” Davis said. “They
have trained hard, supported one another and demonstrated the character that this
profession demands. We are proud to see them step forward to serve the citizens of
Florida and uphold the highest standards of public safety.”
The ceremony also featured remarks from Colonel Billingsley of Suwannee Correctional
Institution and an address from class leader Officer Lilyann Matos, who spoke on behalf
of the class about the determination and teamwork that helped them complete the academy.
Graduates of Correctional Officer Basic Recruit Academy Class 45-2025-3016-1 include:
Hamilton County:
· Lilyann Matos, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
· David Pert, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
Suwannee County:
· Katreenah Hamor, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
· Gabriel Montoya Perez, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
· Kado Podvin, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
· Zachery Snyder, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
· Ryan Van Swearingen, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
Columbia County
· Veronica Buck, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
· Logan Couchon, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
· Jamie Richardson, Class Sergeant, Suwannee County Correctional Institution
Lowndes County, Ga.:
· William Faircloth, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
· Brent Kebby, Class Lieutenant, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
· Torrance Morrison, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
· Allen Westervelt, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
Mitchell County, Ga:
· Olivia Ayers, Hamilton County Correctional Institution
The North Florida College Public Safety Academy is led by Director Rick Davis, with
support from Academy Administrator Ryan Scuglia, Academy Coordinator Rusty Davis, and
adjunct instructor Friedrich Seiltgen. Together they guide recruits through a rigorous
program designed to develop professionalism, ethical leadership and the practical
skills needed to succeed in the field.
As these graduates begin their careers, they join a proud tradition of public servants
committed to protecting communities and supporting the safety and well-being of others.
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Suwannee County Correction Graduates
Hamilton County Correction Graduates
Basic Recruit Graduates Celebrate at Ceremony
Class leader Lilyann Matos receives her certificate from NFC President Dr. Jennifer
Page