The Executive Vice President for Academics, Dr. James Perey, congratulated the new graduates. In his address, Dr. Perey mentioned this is the 10th graduating class since the program started and applauded their commitment to service in law enforcement. “To the families and friends, thank you for your steadfast support. Your encouragement has been instrumental to the success of all the graduates,” Perey added.
Sheriff Mark Dannels joined in acknowledging the efforts of Class 23-2. In his remarks, he highlighted the significance of adding 15 law enforcement officers to the community and assured the new officers, “You will never be alone. You are now part of the law enforcement family.” He encouraged the graduates to carry forward the values they learned. “When you put on your badge, think of lives you will touch, change and comfort.”
The class adopted the motto “Live with honor, serve with pride,” which described their training and future responsibilities. The ceremony also included a special recognition for outstanding achievements and retirement accolades. Jacob Bonilla was awarded for exemplary physical fitness, while Shuyler Meeks was recognized for his academic excellence, achieving a remarkable 98.2% overall. Jason Sanez was honored with the firearms proficiency award, showcasing exceptional skill in this critical area. Andre Roiger received the unofficial Emergency Vehicle Operation Course Driving award.
Class leader Shuyler Meeks reflected on the journey of Class 23-2, sharing insights and experiences that shaped their time at the academy. His words resonated with the shared experiences of the class, serving as a reminder of the challenges they overcame and the bonds they formed. For anyone looking to pursue a career in law enforcement and attend the academy, Meeks said, “My advice is to be open-minded and ready to work. The training here will definitely help you and save your life.”
This graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter for these 15 officers as they begin their careers, carrying the lessons, skills, and values instilled during their time at SEALETA.
The graduates for the Class 23-2 are:
Christian Ballesteros, Bisbee Police Department
Robert Donahue, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Raul Durazo, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Dalin Epstein, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Emmanuel Flores, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Andre Roiger, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Jason Sanez, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Mark Schulteis, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Zachary Wright, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Scott Rose, Cochise County Sheriff’s Office
Christian Titla, Graham County Sheriff’s Office
Joel Bustamante, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office
Jacob Bonilla, Sierra Vista Police Department
Daniel Lopez, Sierra Vista Police Department
Shuyler Meeks, Sierra Vista Police Department
SEALETA’s 23-2 class will be the last graduation at the Douglas Campus. Dr. Eric Brooks, executive director for the First Responders Academy, said, “We will start a new SEALETA chapter in January 2024 at the Sierra Vista Campus.” For more information about the First Responders Academy or SEALETA, visit the college’s webpage, www.cochise.edu/first-responders.
