Senator Pam Helming met Thursday with members of the 218th Basic School graduating class and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. During the visit, Senator Helming presented New York State Senate Citations to four graduates from her district in recognition of their achievement, dedication, and commitment to public service.

Senator Helming recognized the following constituents:

• Trooper Tomas Ippolito of Newark
• Trooper Owen Shedden of Honeoye Falls
• Trooper Dylan Southcott of Ontario
• Trooper August Gordner of Shortsville

Of the 175 graduates, 18 will be assigned to Troop E, headquartered in Farmington, Ontario County. Troop E serves communities across the Finger Lakes and Western New York region, including Wayne, Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario counties.

Senator Helming said, “Graduating from the New York State Police Academy represents an extraordinary accomplishment and the beginning of a career dedicated to protecting others. The training required to become a New York State Trooper demands discipline, integrity, resilience, and a strong commitment to public service. I was proud to recognize Thomas, Owen, Dylan, and August for their hard work and dedication, and I thank them for answering the call to serve.”

The graduation marks the successful completion of six months of intensive training, including academic instruction, physical conditioning, tactical preparation, and field training.

The graduates will report to their assigned troops beginning Saturday, May 30, where they will continue field training under the supervision of Senior Field Training Officers.

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