GIANNA WATSON

^{Framingham, Mass.}

On Saturday, Feb. 22, 2026, Officer Gianna Watson was on routine patrol along Route 9 in Framingham, a heavily traveled roadway. During her patrol, she observed an individual in a wheelchair traveling in the roadway due to snow-covered sidewalks. The individual was unable to safely navigate traffic and needed assistance. Officer Watson immediately stopped and assisted by pushing the wheelchair, guiding the individual safely out of the roadway and to a secure location.

We applaud Officer Watson for her attentiveness, compassion, and commitment to public safety. Her actions embody the spirit of the Servant Officer and reflect the highest standards of the City of Framingham’s Police Department.

RYAN KILLEEN

^{Weymouth, Mass.}

Officer Ryan Killeen consistently puts others' needs and feelings before his own. Known to many as a "go-to" officer, he leads by example and is always among the first to step up and volunteer to assist. 

One recent example: Immediately after the line-of-duty death of an officer in Massachusetts, he joined two other Weymouth Police Officers in delivering a care package to that department.

A few days later, Officer Killeen volunteered to ride his assigned police motorcycle approximately 250 miles round trip to assist in the dignified escort of the deceased officer from a medical examiner's office in western Massachusetts. This effort took place following a recent snowfall and ice storm, with temperatures in the teens.

MICHAEL PEELER

^{Cleveland, Miss.}

The Delta State University (DSU) Police Department wanted to lift up Chief Michael Peeler for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to others. His genuine love and compassion for the DSU faculty, staff, students, and community—along with the Department’s partner agencies—truly set him apart.

Chief Peeler exemplifies what it means to be a Servant Officer, consistently placing the needs of others before his own. As he often reminds his team, “It’s not about the leaders, it’s about those being led.” This spirit of dedication—coupled with his vision and guidance—make Chief Peeler a true model of leadership.

Artie DePinho

^{Boston, Mass.}

A graduate of the LHLN Significant Leader Series, Officer Artie DePinho leads through service, bringing people together, and creating opportunity. Officer DePinho is assigned to the Youth Violence Strike Force. His role focuses on working with community partners to connect people to resources and services. His work reflects a growing and innovative focus on prevention and community partnership within policing.

He also co-founded Waymaker Boxing, a nonprofit gym in Dorchester. Waymaker Boxing is built on a simple idea: boxing is the tool; community and leadership are the outcome. Through structured training and mentorship, the gym helps develop the next generation of leaders.

Mckale Washington

^{Moore, Okl.}

Sgt. McKale Washington represents the kind of leadership that doesn’t wait to be called—it shows up. Ahead of an incoming winter storm, he took it upon himself to salt driveways and porches for residents who might need extra help.

No lights. No sirens. Just a commitment to serve. And when the storm passed, he was back out in the community—helping shovel snow and clear walkways for neighbors. These weren’t assigned duties—they were intentional acts of care.

His impact goes even further. After noticing a young man walking an hour and a half to work each day, Sgt. Washington stepped in—building a relationship and providing him with a bicycle, turning hardship into opportunity.

Sgt. Washington reminds us that leadership isn’t defined by rank—it’s defined by action. Through consistent, quiet service, he’s making his community better one person at a time.

Stephen Turner

^{Tazewell, Vir.}

Leadership is often measured not by rank, but by the impact someone has on the people around them. Lieutenant Stephen Turner of the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia exemplifies that kind of servant leadership.

Known as a selfless and dependable leader, Lt. Turner consistently invests in others by sharing his knowledge, mentoring fellow deputies, and supporting those across the department. His commitment to helping people grow and strengthening both his department and community reflects the true heart of leadership through service.

Through humility, mentorship, and action, Lt. Turner continues to make a lasting impact on those around him.

Alex Morice

^{Asheville, NC}

Officer Alex Morice embodies what servant leadership looks like in action. As the School Resource Officer at AC Reynolds Middle School, he brings heart, passion, and purpose into every interaction. A retired educator turned law enforcement officer, Officer Morice continues to serve others by building meaningful relationships with students—especially those facing challenges outside of school.

Whether he’s mentoring students, sharing conversations at lunch, joining in friendly handshakes, or helping deescalate difficult situations with patience and compassion, Officer Morice consistently shows up for the people who need him most. His commitment to both student connection and campus safety makes a lasting impact each day.

Officer Morice is more than an officer—he’s a mentor, protector, and servant leader who is helping shape lives for the better at AC Reynolds Middle School.

Nicolas Jablonsky

Titusville, FL

Sergeant Joshua Newsom

Lynn Haven, FL

Some leaders make an impact through what they accomplish. Others make an impact through how they serve. Sergeant Joshua Newsom of the Lynn Haven Police Department exemplifies servant leadership through his dedication to his department, his community, and the people around him.

This week, we are honored to recognize Sgt. Newsom as a Featured Servant Officer. Since joining the Lynn Haven Police Department in 2016, he has consistently demonstrated professionalism, humility, and a commitment to serving others. His dedication earned him the department's Officer of the Year award in 2022, reflecting the impact he has made on both his agency and community.

Sgt. Newsom's service extends far beyond his daily responsibilities. Following Hurricane Ian, he volunteered to assist the City of North Port during a time of great need. He also serves on the department's SWAT Team and led the development of its Water Operations Unit, helping strengthen the agency's ability to respond to emergencies and protect the community.

Whether mentoring fellow officers or volunteering at community events such as Public Safety Touch-a-Truck and Popsicles with the Police, Sgt. Newsom consistently leads with a positive attitude and a servant's heart. His willingness to serve, support, and invest in others makes him a deserving Featured Servant Officer and an outstanding example of leadership in action.

Thank you, Sergeant Joshua Newsom, for your dedication to service and your commitment to making a difference every day.

Lieutenant Scott Davis

Springfield, Massachusetts

Some leaders serve through their position. Others serve by creating opportunities that bring people together. Lieutenant Scott Davis of the Massachusetts State Police exemplifies the latter, dedicating his time, energy, and leadership to building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the next generation.

This week, Leaders Helping Leaders Network is proud to recognize Lt. Scott Davis as our Featured Servant Officer.

Over the past two years, Lt. Davis has volunteered countless hours to organize the MSP Unity Flag Football League in partnership with Phoenix Legacy Sports in Springfield, Massachusetts. What began as a community initiative has grown into a meaningful program that fosters trust, connection, and positive engagement between Massachusetts State Troopers and local youth.

The league's growth speaks to its impact. In 2025, approximately 100 young athletes participated. By 2026, that number had grown to 254 players. Throughout the season, Lt. Davis coordinated Trooper involvement, creating opportunities for officers to mentor, encourage, and build genuine relationships with participants. Whether walking the sidelines, cheering on players, or engaging in conversations before and after games, Troopers became more than law enforcement officers—they became trusted role models.

When funding challenges threatened the program, Lt. Davis remained committed to its success. Through his leadership, he secured $4,500 in donations, while partnerships with organizations such as the Police Athletic League and AT&T provided jerseys for every participant. His determination ensured the program continued to serve hundreds of young people and their families.

Beyond his community involvement, Lt. Davis serves as the Station Commander of the Springfield Barracks and the Troop Financial Officer, while also mentoring young Troopers as they develop into future leaders within the Massachusetts State Police. His investment in others reflects a leadership philosophy centered on service, growth, and lasting impact.

Lt. Scott Davis demonstrates that servant leadership extends far beyond the badge. By investing in young people, mentoring fellow officers, and strengthening community relationships, he is helping build a future founded on trust, respect, and service.

Congratulations, Lieutenant Scott Davis, and thank you for your outstanding commitment to serving others and making a lasting difference in your community. Your leadership is an inspiration to us all.

Sergeant Sean Reed

Yarmouth Police Department, Massachusetts

Some acts of leadership don't happen in front of a crowd. They happen in ordinary moments when someone chooses to stop, serve, and care for another person without expecting recognition.

This week, Leaders Helping Leaders Network is honored to recognize Sergeant Sean Reed of the Yarmouth Police Department as our Featured Servant Officer.

While off duty and away from work, Sergeant Reed witnessed a young child crash her bicycle and fall into the roadway in Osterville. Without hesitation, he pulled over to help.

As traffic continued to pass by, Sergeant Reed stayed with the injured child, her father, and her siblings while they waited for emergency medical personnel to arrive. His calm presence helped bring reassurance during a frightening and emotional situation.

But his service didn't stop there.

After the ambulance transported the child for medical care, Sergeant Reed loaded the family's bicycles and returned them safely to their home so the family could focus entirely on their daughter.

The child's father, a local firefighter, later shared the experience publicly, hoping to identify the stranger who had helped his family. Once Sergeant Reed was identified, he wrote a heartfelt message of gratitude, describing how Sean's kindness and steady presence made an overwhelming moment more manageable.

He wrote:

"Sean didn't hesitate. He immediately pulled over, stayed with me and the kids while we waited for the ambulance, helped keep everyone calm, and even took the time afterward to bring our bikes back to the house."

He continued:

"As a father, seeing your child hurt is one of the scariest feelings imaginable, and in that moment, Sean's presence, kindness, and willingness to help meant more to me than I could ever properly express."

Sergeant Reed's actions are a reminder that servant leadership is not defined by rank, assignment, or whether you're on the clock. It is defined by character. It is choosing to serve simply because someone needs help.

According to those who work alongside him, Sergeant Reed consistently demonstrates that same commitment every day as a supervisor, mentor, and ambassador for his department. His willingness to put others first reflects the very heart of servant leadership.

Congratulations to Sergeant Sean Reed, our Featured Servant Officer.

Thank you for demonstrating that leadership is ultimately measured not by authority, but by service.

Officer Gloria West

Columbus Division Of Police

Columbus, Ohio

Officer Gloria West didn't hesitate.

When a routine crash turned into a life-threatening emergency, she ran toward the danger instead of away from it.

The driver, trapped inside his vehicle, believed he wouldn't make it. His final words to a 911 dispatcher were a message for his wife.

Officer West knew every second mattered.

Without hesitation, she reached the vehicle, freed the driver, and brought him to safety. In doing so, she suffered burns to her hands—but because of her courage and selfless service, a life was saved.

For her extraordinary actions, Officer West was honored with the U.S. Attorney's Hometown Hero Award, recognizing individuals who embody service, courage, and civic responsibility.

At Leaders Helping Leaders Network, we believe this is what servantleadership looks like. It's choosing others before yourself. It's answering the call when it matters most. It's leading through action.

Officer Eric Sewade

North Andover Police Department | Massachusetts

proud to recognize Officer Eric Sewade of the North Andover Police Department as a Featured Servant Officer.

Officer Sewade consistently demonstrates the courage, compassion, and selfless commitment that define servant leadership. Throughout his career, he has become someone his fellow officers and community members can depend on during their most challenging moments.

His service includes helping save two lives through CPR and AED intervention, locating a missing child with autism, and supporting critical operations as a member of the NEMLEC SWAT and Regional Response Teams.

Officer Sewade has also dedicated several years to the department’s K-9 program, serving alongside K-9 Mojo from 2016 to 2022 and currently working with K-9 Neo. His professionalism and dedication have earned him recognition as the Exchange Club Officer of the Year for three consecutive years, from 2023 through 2025.

Officer Sewade’s impact is not defined by one moment. It is reflected in the consistent way he serves, supports others, and places the needs of his community before his own.

We are honored to recognize Officer Eric Sewade for his outstanding service and for exemplifying what it means to be a true Servant Officer.

Sergeant John C. Sims 

Crofton Police Department| Maryland

With more than 30 years of dedicated law enforcement service, Patrol Sergeant John C. Sims of the Crofton Police Department in Maryland has built a career defined by leadership, education, and meaningful community involvement. 

Throughout his career, Sgt. Sims has served in numerous roles, including SWAT officer, detective, community policing officer, and law enforcement instructor. Today, he continues to use that experience to protect others—not only by responding to calls, but by proactively sharing his knowledge with the community.

Sgt. Sims regularly attends school events and conducts bicycle-safety presentations for young people. As a sixth-degree black belt, he partnered with a local martial arts studio to offer women free training in self-defense and personal awareness. He also meets with local business owners to discuss their safety concerns, provide crime-prevention recommendations, and answer questions.

Through every presentation, conversation, and community event, Sgt. Sims works to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the people it serves. His professionalism, compassion, and commitment to educating and protecting others embody the true meaning of servant leadership.

LHLN is proud to recognize Sergeant John C. Sims as this week’s Featured Servant Officer.

 Officer Madeline “Maddie” Dumais

Sharon Police Department

Officer Madeline Dumais, through her initiative and unwavering commitment to serving our community, Officer Dumais went well beyond the call of duty to improve the life of a young child in Sharon by ensuring they had the opportunity to attend summer camp.

On June 21, 2026, the Sharon Police Department responded to a call at the Econo Lodge. While the call itself was ultimately determined to be innocuous, I became aware that a nine-year-old child had been living at the motel with their family for more than three years. Although the family’s basic needs were being met, the living circumstances were not ideal for a developing child.

After speaking with the family, I learned they had no plans for the summer. I contacted Camp Wonderland, whose staff generously offered to provide the child with a full scholarship to attend camp.

Although several officers offered their assistance, Officer Dumais immediately embraced the responsibility and took ownership of making this opportunity a reality. She worked directly with both the family and camp staff to ensure all required paperwork was completed and every detail was addressed.

She then dedicated hours to gathering the supplies the child would need for an overnight camp experience. Understanding that the child had never had the opportunity to enjoy many of the activities offered at camp, Officer Dumais personally purchased a bathing suit so the child could participate in waterfront activities alongside the other campers.

She also served as the primary liaison between the family and Camp Wonderland, coordinating transportation and ensuring a smooth transition for the child’s arrival.

Officer Dumais’s efforts exemplify the very best of community policing. While attending summer camp may seem like a routine childhood experience to many, it represented something extraordinary for this child.

Upon arriving for the first day of camp, the child became overwhelmed with emotion, began crying tears of joy, and said:

“I didn’t think this camp life was real.”

That simple statement speaks volumes about the impact Officer Dumais had on this child’s life.

Officer Dumais has continued to stay in contact with camp staff and remains committed to ensuring the child has a safe, positive, and memorable summer experience. Her compassion, dedication, and willingness to invest her personal time and resources embody the highest ideals of the Sharon Police Department and demonstrate the profound impact a police officer can have beyond traditional law-enforcement duties.