Mauldin Cadets Program Graduates 25

Yesterday was a big day for the dedicated group of girls who participated in the Mauldin Police Youth Academy. The girls (a/k/a Cadets) went through three weeks of character building, physical education and development of life skills.

According to Kelli Hamilton, a Mauldin police officer who leads the program, for only the second time in academy history 25 Cadets started and 25 Cadets finished. No small feat considering the rigorous program designed by Hamilton and her colleagues.

It’s hard work, but worth the effort. “The Cadets learn about teamwork and see positive role models,” Hamilton said. “But they make new friends, too.”

The program was started by Police Chief Bryan Turner and is in its fourth year of operation. Later this month, 25 boys will take part in the program. Cadets are aged between 11 and 14 and are selected in the spring in sign-ups at their respective schools.

In a ceremony at City Hall, the Cadets were addressed by Chief Turner, Mayor Don Godbey and City Administrator Trey Eubanks, each of whom commended the girls on their dedication. An overflow audience of friends and family filled the courtroom, which was where the ceremony was held.

Hamilton said what stood out with this group of cadets was their discipline. “The group was enormously well-disciplined and they really looked out for each other,” she said.

This year’s class of cadets is as follows:

Cleopatra Bell

Tatyana Bell

Imani Belton

Erica Beresheim

Kyndal Broadway

Kiara Crawley

Skylar DeLauder

Angelique Dominguez

Madison Floyd

Katrena Guyder

Samantha Haynes

Kayla Howerton

Destiny Jennings

Nadiya Lowe

Jala Malone

Versachee Martin

Nazja Mike

Zjatavianna Norris

Dixie Osborne

Allyson Panzino

Gracie Pruitt

Alex Reyes

Heather Robertson

Kelsey White

Addison Woodard