The Pennsylvania State Police officially welcomed 49 new troopers into its ranks Friday as the 174th Cadet Class graduated during a ceremony at LCBC Manheim. Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris delivered remarks and administered the oath, acknowledging the cadets’ completion of approximately 27 weeks of rigorous physical, academic, and scenario-based training.
The class marks another milestone in the Shapiro Administration’s continued investment in public safety. The 2025–26 state budget includes funding for four new cadet classes, and since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has secured funding for twelve classes total—supporting the training of more than 1,000 new troopers. More than 550 cadets have graduated under his leadership, and additional funding through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has helped municipal departments recruit and retain nearly 700 officers statewide.
“For nearly six months at our Academy, this elite group of dedicated women and men remained focused, motivated, disciplined, and committed to earning the rank of trooper,” Colonel Paris said. “Today, we celebrate their great achievement and look forward to them joining our PSP brothers and sisters in serving, protecting, and upholding the law across the Commonwealth.”
Waived College Requirement Continues to Boost Recruitment
The 174th Class is the fourth to graduate without PSP’s former college credit requirement — a change implemented by the Shapiro Administration in August 2023. The adjustment has significantly expanded the applicant pool, resulting in a 258% increase in testing candidates the year it was introduced.
Cadet Award Recipients
Four members of the graduating class were recognized for outstanding achievement:
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Joseph A. Williams
American Legion Award, Gesford High Shooter Award, Daniel F. Dunn High Scholastic Award
Recognized for exemplary academic, physical, and ethical performance; top qualification score in pistol marksmanship; and highest academic achievement. -
Frank A. Dangello
John K. Schafer Memorial Award
Received for earning the highest combined score in physical skills testing. -
Michael C. Polinski
Colonel Paul J. Chylak Memorial Driver Proficiency Award
Honored for outstanding proficiency in emergency vehicle operations. -
Kaleb S. Crean
Colonel Ronald M. Sharpe Leadership Award
Recognized for exceptional leadership characteristics and influence among peers.
New Troopers Assigned Across Pennsylvania
The 49 new troopers will report to their respective stations on December 15, 2025:
Troop B – Washington (7)
Amira M. Agayev
Hannah M. Crawford
Jeremy S. Mack, Jr.
Nathan A. Miller
Ryan N. Pronko
Jacob T. Richards
Jason H. Smith
Troop F – Montoursville (5)
Corey M. Chamberlain
David L. Hoover
Blake A. Prestash
Robert M. Rubino
Landen M. Weis
Troop H – Harrisburg (10)
Matthew W. Ankrom
Kiley J. Boutin
Terrell T. Bowman
Ethan M. Cavalet
Cortney J. Coppock
Jacob D. Gardner
Zachary N. Hill
Tanner M. Ilgen
Anthony D. Rowland
Jared L. Titley
Troop J – Lancaster (12)
Kaleb S. Crean
Josue G. Gonzalez
David R. Hartman
Erik K. Heck
Chase R. Irwin
Dylan R. Jones
Easton R. McDaniel
Isaiah M. Nadolsky
James W. Perrin
Michael C. Polinski
Nicholas J. Walton
Joseph A. Williams
Troop K – Philadelphia (8)
Theodore W.W. Fiori
Lauren G. Foley
Jacob A. Iraca
Samantha B. Larsen
Collin M. Nissley
Jonathan C. Roberts
Tara R. Sanders
William R. Suter
Troop M – Bethlehem (6)
Frank A. Dangello
Ezmeralda M. Fernandez
Patrick J. Hidalgo
Lukas Medvecky
Lydia D. Szymanski
Ryan R. Verbonitz
Troop P – Wilkes-Barre (1)
Ryan P. Kennedy
PSP Hiring Cycle Remains Open
The Pennsylvania State Police continues to actively recruit future cadets. The current application window is open until January 23, 2026.
Individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Pennsylvania State Trooper can review application requirements, benefits, and testing information at PATrooper.com.