07/21/2026
The SIUE community had the honor and pleasure of hosting the 2026 Illinois Metro East Team Illinois Youth Police Camp BBQ last Friday while also having several of our officers serve as camp counselors throughout the week.
This year's camp celebrated a record-breaking class of 65 graduating cadets. Over the course of the week, these young leaders demonstrated outstanding leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and character while learning from dedicated law enforcement professionals representing agencies across the Metro East.
We are especially proud to recognize Officer Jones, who received the prestigious Top Cop Awardâan honor voted on by the cadets and presented to the officer who made the greatest impact during the week. Congratulations, Officer Jones!
We also want to recognize one of our School Resource Officers, Sergeant Hoyd, who has the privilege of mentoring one of the cadets throughout the year. We're proud to share that this outstanding cadet was elected Class President, named Valedictorian, and even caught the biggest fish at the camp's fishing derby. Congratulations to both Sergeant Hoyd and your exceptional mentee on these on these incredible accomplishments!
Thank you to everyone who helped make this important program such a meaningful and successful experience. Investing in our youth today helps build stronger communities for tomorrow.
