Second cohort of Basic Peace Officer Academy graduates with outstanding achievements

On Dec. 9, 2024, the Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center, in partnership with Ohio University Chillicothe, celebrated the completion of its second cohort of the Basic Peace Officer Academy. The ceremony was a testament to the program's growth and outstanding achievements, drawing nearly 175 attendees including family, friends and law enforcement representatives.

“It is truly wonderful to have the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of this group," Dr. Roberta Milliken, dean of Campus and Community Relations at Ohio University Chillicothe, said. "All of them have demonstrated the drive, dedication, and fortitude needed to succeed in their law enforcement careers, and we are confident they will do just that.”

Commander Terri Mikesh commended the 10-member cohort for exceptional teamwork and performance, highlighting their collective achievement and noting that all graduates passed both the physical fitness and written portions of the Ohio Peace Officer exam on their first attempt—a remarkable accomplishment that underscores the program's rigorous training.

Carrie Fife, director of Adult Education at Pickaway-Ross, highlighted the significance of this achievement. 

“Celebrating the completion of our second class with 100% pass rates on the PT exam and state test is a huge win for the students and the program,” Fife said.

Law enforcement agencies recognized the graduates' professional potential. 

“All 10 cadets secured full-time job offers from law enforcement agencies before graduation,” Mikesh proudly noted, emphasizing the program’s reputation for producing highly prepared officers. 

Graduates have joined agencies including the Ross County Sheriff’s Office, Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, Circleville Police Department, Wilmington Police Department, Vinton County Sheriff’s Office, Highland County Sheriff’s Office and Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office.

This cohort’s achievements build on the academy’s reputation for excellence. Earlier this year, the program was named an Attorney General STAR Academy for providing training that exceeds Ohio’s minimum requirements.

Dr. Milliken also highlighted the importance of the program’s regional impact. 

“We value our partnership with Pickaway-Ross in offering the Basic Peace Officer Academy. Not only does it provide students the opportunity to realize their goals of becoming law enforcement officials; it also helps to meet the workforce needs of our region," Milliken said.

Deputy Taylor Jackson, addressing her fellow graduates during the ceremony, reflected on their shared commitment to protecting and serving their communities. 

“Always remember, the person you’re dealing with is someone’s loved one,” Jackson said, reminding her peers of the compassion and professionalism their role demands.

The growth of the academy is evident, with this year’s graduating class nearly doubling in size from the first cohort of six. As the demand for well-trained peace officers continues to rise, Pickaway-Ross CTC’s Basic Peace Officer Academy is setting the bar for excellence in law enforcement training.

For more information about enrollment in the 2025 Basic Peace Officer Academy, please contact Commander Terri Mikesh (terri.mikesh@pickawayross.com). The 2025 Academy is currently enrolling.