Col. Robert Evanchick, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, announced Friday that 99 cadets graduated from the State Police Academy in Hershey and have been assigned to troops across the commonwealth. The men and women represent the 159th graduating cadet class.

In accordance with statewide measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the graduation ceremony was closed to the public. Friends and family were afforded the opportunity to view the event via live streams on the Academy Facebook page, YouTube Live, and PAcast.

“The support of loved ones, even from afar, is crucial during the rigorous physical and mental training State Police cadets receive at the Academy, and it will remain vital throughout their careers as troopers,” said Colonel Evanchick. “Although proud parents, siblings, spouses, and others could not attend in person, we are grateful for everything they have done to help these men and women reach the important milestone we are marking today.”

Nicholas A. Sully, who has been assigned in Monroe County, received the American Legion Award, presented to the most outstanding cadet in recognition of all-around academic, physical, ethical, and moral qualifications.

Sully also received the Colonel Ronald L. Sharpe Award, presented to the cadet who most exemplifies the qualities of leadership and the Colonel John K. Schafer Award, presented to the cadet who achieved the highest combined score on a series of physical skills tests.

Graduates have been assigned to the following area troops:

Troop M, Bethlehem: Jeffrey T. Buchinski and Isaias Espinoza

Troop M, Fogelsville: Cole T. Campbell and Harrison R. Kaye

Troop N, Fern Ridge: Milagros Holguin Ramos

Troop N, Hazleton: Patrick McDonald, Terry J. Tirko II and Kevin D. Wesolowski

Troop N, Stroudsburg: Paige M. Drawbaugh, Shawn T. Jones, Robert J. Nardelli, Robert L. Russell, Nicholas Sully and Blair C. Williams

For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit www.psp.pa.gov.