Held in partnership with The Outlet Event Center in Edwardsville, the event brought together first responders, their families, and colleagues for an evening of appreciation and recognition.

“Our first responders show up for us every single day, often during some of life’s most difficult moments,” said Senator Harriss. “This event is about taking the time to recognize the people behind the uniforms and the difference they’re making right here in our communities. Each of these honorees has gone above and beyond, and I’m grateful we had the opportunity to thank them and their families for the sacrifices they make.”

The 15 honorees were nominated by their respective departments for their exceptional service and dedication to their communities.

The 2026 honorees included:

Firefighter/Paramedic Mark Vann

Edwardsville Fire Department

Firefighter/Paramedic Mark Vann is recognized for exceptional initiative and leadership in advancing emergency medical care for the Edwardsville community. His work implementing new patient-care technology, expanding medication capabilities, securing a portable ultrasound, and helping bring lifesaving Cyanokit treatment to the region has strengthened emergency response throughout the Metro East. His innovation, persistence, and commitment to exceptional patient care exemplify the very best of the fire service.

Detective Jacob Custer

Alton Police Department

Detective Jacob Custer is recognized for his dedicated service as School Resource Officer at Mark Twain School, where he consistently demonstrates professionalism, leadership, and character. Through his commitment to students, families, and public service, he provides a trusted and positive presence for young people who may have few such influences in their lives. His compassion and example embody the very best of community policing.

Captain Steven Sowders

Alton Fire Department

Captain Steven Sowders is recognized for his lifesaving response to a cardiac arrest, working alongside Engineer Jacob Schwegel and fellow crews to provide critical treatment and medications that revived the patient. His decisive action, exceptional poise, and professionalism under tremendous pressure were instrumental in achieving a positive outcome. His service reflects the skill, courage, and dedication at the heart of the fire service.

Engineer Jacob Schwegel

Alton Fire Department

Engineer Jacob Schwegel is recognized for his lifesaving response to a cardiac arrest, working alongside Captain Steven Sowders and fellow crews to provide critical treatment and medications that revived the patient. His decisive action, exceptional poise, and professionalism under tremendous pressure were instrumental in achieving a positive outcome. His service reflects the skill, courage, and dedication at the heart of the fire service.

Captain Michael Flatt

Hartford Fire Department

Michael Flatt is recognized for extraordinary dedication to the Hartford Fire Department and the community it serves. Whether answering calls at any hour, supporting community events, or assisting citizens and patients with knowledge, compassion, and empathy, he consistently goes above and beyond. His dependability and commitment to service exemplify the spirit of a first responder.

Sergeant Jordan Lind

Bethalto Police Department

Sergeant Jordan Lind is recognized for extraordinary courage, leadership, compassion, and service to the Bethalto community. From apprehending dangerous offenders and demonstrating restraint during volatile situations to assisting vulnerable residents with dignity and care, he consistently exemplifies sound judgment and servant leadership. His remarkable record of service, professionalism, and dedication reflects great credit upon the Bethalto Police Department and the community he serves.

Captain Lauren Clendenen

South Roxana Fire Department

Captain Lauren Clendenen is recognized for dedicated service, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitment to professional growth. Through her service as both a firefighter and South Roxana police officer, she has demonstrated an exceptional devotion to protecting and serving her community. Her commitment across two public safety roles exemplifies the spirit of service honored on National First Responders Day.

Captain Derrick Masulla

South Roxana Fire Department

Captain Derrick Masulla is recognized for his dedication to professional growth and continued service in the fire service. Building on five years with the Roxana Fire Department, he has continued his commitment at South Roxana while beginning service as a refinery firefighter and pursuing advanced training through the Illinois Fire Service Institute. His drive to strengthen his skills reflects a commendable commitment to protecting others and serving his community.

Sergeant Brandon Shellenberg

Granite City Police Department

Sergeant Brandon Shellenberg is recognized for extraordinary lifesaving action while off duty on August 25, 2026. Upon learning that a gym patron was unconscious and not breathing, he immediately called 911 and began CPR, helping the individual survive the cardiac event and make a full recovery. Medical personnel credited his swift intervention with saving the man’s life, exemplifying the readiness and selfless service of a first responder.

Fire Prevention & Life Safety Educator Sara Stockstorm

O’Fallon Fire Department

Fire Prevention & Life Safety Educator Sara Stockstorm is recognized for transforming fire and life safety education through innovative uses of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence. Her leadership in Community Risk Reduction has earned recognition from state and national public safety organizations while creating engaging learning experiences for children and adults. Her creativity, leadership, and commitment to sharing her expertise are advancing public safety in O’Fallon and beyond.

Forensic Interviewer Supervisor Jennifer Kampwerth

Madison County Child Advocacy Center

Forensic Interviewer Supervisor Jennifer Kampwerth is recognized for 15 years of dedicated service to children and families and for extending her expertise across Illinois. As a mentor and Child First faculty member, she trains professionals in the specialized techniques required to interview children about victimization with care and professionalism. Her leadership helps ensure these sensitive interviews meet the highest standards while giving vulnerable children a safe and effective voice.

Advocate Supervisor & MDT Coordinator Sherri Sanford

Madison County Child Advocacy Center

Advocate Supervisor & MDT Coordinator Sherri Sanford is recognized for nine years of dedicated service to children and families and for her leadership in strengthening the center’s advocacy program. She works to ensure families have access to critical resources while providing multidisciplinary partners with valuable training and support. Her compassion and leadership strengthen the network of professionals serving some of the community’s most vulnerable children.

Telecommunicator Steven Harper

Madison County Sheriff’s Office

Telecommunicator Steven Harper is recognized for exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to public safety. As lead trainer for the 911/Communications Division, he has helped strengthen dispatcher training and prepare those who serve as the first voice residents hear in moments of crisis. His EMD-Q certification and work reviewing 9-1-1 calls further demonstrate his commitment to accountability, excellence, and high-quality emergency communications throughout Madison County.

Fire Chief Brendan McKee

Edwardsville Fire Department

Fire Chief Brendan McKee is recognized for exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to the Edwardsville Fire Department and community. Through organizational improvement, professional development, and operational excellence, he has strengthened the department, fostered collaboration, and invested in the next generation of fire service leaders. His integrity, accountability, and commitment to his personnel and community exemplify distinguished public service.

Deputy Ryan Fry

Madison County Sheriff’s Office

Deputy Ryan Fry is recognized for compassionate leadership and dedicated service as School Resource Officer at Alton High School and as the Madison County Sheriff’s Office’s defensive tactics expert. By building trusted relationships with students, staff, and families, he has strengthened school safety and confidence in law enforcement, while his instruction helps prepare fellow deputies to protect both officers and the public. His combination of mentorship, professionalism, and leadership exemplifies the courage, service, and dedication honored on National First Responders Day.

Senator Harriss also expressed her appreciation to The Outlet Event Center for its partnership in hosting the annual event and the Edwardsville FFA student volunteers who helped make the evening possible.

Additional photos from the event, can be found and used from here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CrZVv6fD3/

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“Glen-Ed Pantry does incredible work helping families right here in our community,” said Senator Harriss. “As the need for their services continues to grow, we want to make sure they have the space and resources to keep up. I’m glad to help bring these dollars home and support the Pantry’s next chapter.”

The funding will help support improvements to the Pantry’s new building, allowing the organization to better serve individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout the area.

“This investment comes at an important time for Glen-Ed Pantry as we prepare for the future,” said Jane Ahasay, Executive Director of Glen-Ed Pantry. “We appreciate Senator Harriss recognizing the needs of our organization and helping us expand our ability to serve local families.”

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding for first responders, infrastructure improvements and community organizations throughout the Metro East.

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The $5,000 investment will support the replacement of outdated fluorescent lighting with energy-efficient LED lighting, helping the organization lower utility expenses and direct more resources toward serving local families.

“Crisis Food Center provides an important service to families in our community, and I want to make sure organizations like this have the support they need,” said Senator Harriss. “These improvements will help lower operating costs so more resources can go toward helping families who need it most.”

Nick Kessinger of Crisis Food Center welcomed the investment.

“Every dollar we can save on operating expenses helps us better serve the people who rely on us,” said Kessinger. “We appreciate Senator Harriss securing this funding and recognizing the importance of supporting local organizations like ours.”

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding for first responders, infrastructure and community organizations throughout the Metro East.

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“Whether you’re taking the kids to the playground, enjoying the walking trails or spending an afternoon at the lake, Drost Park has something for everyone,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m glad to work with Mayor White and the Village to help make this improvement possible for the families who enjoy the park.”

The funding will help the Village construct a new restroom facility as part of its ongoing efforts to maintain and improve Drost Park.

“We take a lot of pride in our parks here in Maryville, and Drost Park is certainly one of our most popular,” said Maryville Mayor Wayne White. “These improvements are important to our residents, and we appreciate Senator Harriss helping us secure the funding to get this project done.”

The announcement marks another investment in Maryville secured by Senator Harriss. In July, she joined Mayor White and local first responders to officially commission a new ambulance for the Maryville Village Fire Department, made possible through $330,000 in state funding she helped secure.

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding for first responders, infrastructure improvements and community organizations throughout the Metro East.

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“Illinois retirees have spent their careers serving our state, and now they’re being put in a position where they could lose access to specialty services and doctors they’ve trusted for years. The State of Illinois offers these retirees only one insurance option, yet that coverage may no longer include some of the region’s largest healthcare providers. That’s unacceptable. The state, Aetna and BJC need to come to the table and find a solution. Our retirees should not be left paying the price.”

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But behind every healthcare decision is a person. A senior managing several prescriptions. A parent worried about a child’s diagnosis. A family trusting a nursing home to care for someone they love.

These are the people I think about when considering healthcare legislation in Springfield.

As a mother of three and your State Senator, I believe families deserve access to affordable, quality healthcare, and I have worked to advance legislation that addresses these concerns.

One of those efforts was the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, which I supported back in 2025. This legislation addresses unfair practices that can drive up prescription drug costs and provides funding to help local pharmacies here at home.

For many Illinois residents, especially seniors, their local pharmacy is where they turn for medications, and help managing their health. We need to make sure those services remain available.

I’ve also supported legislation to eliminate certain state taxes on prescription medications and medical devices used in cancer treatment. When someone is already facing a serious illness, Springfield shouldn’t be making their treatment more expensive.

And when it comes to childhood cancer, I believe we can do more.

This year, I introduced legislation to create the Illinois Pediatric Cancer Fund to support research and treatment for children battling cancer. No parent should have to watch their child go through something like that, and I believe we should be doing everything we can to help these families.

Another area I’ve focused on is protecting seniors and vulnerable residents.

Working alongside State Representative Amy Elik, I helped pass legislation that will require nursing homes to promptly report serious injuries involving residents. Families deserve to know that when something happens to a loved one, it will be properly reported.

I also supported legislation requiring assisted living facilities to have emergency plans in place that consider the individual needs of their residents. Whether it’s a fire, severe weather or another emergency, families should have confidence that their loved ones are being protected.

Mental healthcare is just as important as physical healthcare.

I helped pass legislation to make information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline more accessible at local pharmacies, helping individuals and families find support when they need it most.

I also supported expanding mental health counseling insurance protections for coroners, medical examiners and their deputies. These individuals face difficult situations in their jobs, and they deserve access to the same kind of care and support as our first responders.

And in smaller communities, where emergency medical services often face staffing challenges, I sponsored legislation giving smaller, rural ambulance services more flexibility to staff their emergency crews to continue serving their communities.

These are different pieces of legislation, but they all come back to the same thing: making healthcare more affordable, protecting patients and making sure families have access to the care they need.

I know there is still plenty of work ahead. Healthcare costs remain too high, and too many families are struggling to navigate insurance coverage, medical bills and finding quality care.

We need to keep listening to patients, families and healthcare professionals about what’s working, what isn’t and where we can do better.

I believe there is a lot we can accomplish when we work together and focus on the issues that matter to the people we represent.

Because whether it’s a child battling cancer, a senior trying to afford medication or a family concerned about a loved one’s care, healthcare is personal.

And every Illinois family deserves to know we’re working to make it more affordable and accessible.

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“Our first responders are there for us when we need them most, and it’s important they have the equipment and resources to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m glad we were able to bring these dollars back to O’Fallon to support the men and women who work every day to protect our community.”

The funding will help the City of O’Fallon purchase updated equipment to strengthen emergency response capabilities and support the delivery of emergency medical services to residents.

“We appreciate Senator Harriss securing this funding for O’Fallon,” said Mayor Eric Van Hook. “Ensuring our first responders have the resources they need is an important part of keeping our community safe. This investment will further strengthen our ability to respond to emergencies and serve our residents.”

O’Fallon-Shiloh EMS Chief Jeremy Sherman emphasized the importance of having reliable equipment available when responding to emergencies.

“When someone calls 911, they depend on us to be ready,” said Chief Sherman. “This funding will help ensure our crews have the tools necessary to provide timely, effective care. We appreciate Senator Harriss recognizing the needs of our EMS personnel and supporting the services we provide to our community.”

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding for first responders, infrastructure improvements and social service agencies throughout the Metro East.

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“Keeping our local roads maintained is important for the residents and businesses who use them every day,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m glad we could work with the City of Madison to bring these resources back home and help address local infrastructure needs.”

The $20,000 investment will support capital improvements along McCasland Avenue from McNair Avenue to Farrish Street, helping the City continue its efforts to maintain and improve local roadways.

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding to support first responders, infrastructure improvements and social service organizations across the Metro East.

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“This is one of my very favorite events that we host each year,” said Senator Harriss. “We bring students together from high schools all across the district to hear from some great speakers, learn more about government and meet students from other communities. It’s always exciting to hear their ideas and see them get involved.”

Senator Harriss’ Youth Advisory Council is a two-part program. During the fall session, students hear from guest speakers and work in small groups to develop legislative proposals. Students vote on their bill ideas and return in the spring to the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield, where they participate in a mock legislative process and debate their proposals.

Throughout the day, students heard from guest speakers who shared their experiences and insights on leadership, public service and professional development.

“I like learning about what’s actually happening in our world right now, especially around the U.S. and Illinois,” said Lawdin Warren, a junior at Granite City High School. “Senator Harriss was really nice, and she helped a lot of us learn about what she does. I really appreciate the opportunity.”

“I was taking notes and asking tons of questions because I was genuinely curious about where everybody’s mindset was,” said Kiersten Keyhea, a junior at Granite City High School. “I think it’s really nice to see people come together and share with the youth what they’ve experienced and what they’ve learned.”

“My table has about seven people, and they’re all from different schools,” said Corrine Smalley, a junior at Collinsville High School. “We’re getting to share our opinions on different issues, and it’s nice to hear from everybody and what they have to say.”

“Be consistent. Have integrity. Keep doing things that might seem uncomfortable and challenge yourself,” said Leymar Gray, a senior at Alton High School. “I learned a lot of good life lessons that can genuinely help us, especially as students.”

During the spring session, students will take on different roles in the legislative process, including lawmakers, lobbyists, advocates and members of the media, to debate their proposed legislation in a mock committee hearing at the Capitol.

Harriss said she hopes students leave the experience knowing they can make a difference in their communities.

“Sometimes we hear students say they think they’re too young to make a difference, and I hope a day like today shows them otherwise,” said Senator Harriss. “They have great ideas, and their voices deserve to be heard. I’m looking forward to seeing them in Springfield this spring.”

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“Senior Services Plus provides important programs and services that so many people in our community depend on,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m glad we were able to secure this funding to help make their facility more accessible and comfortable for those they serve.”

The funding will support renovations to the facility’s bathrooms to improve accessibility for seniors and individuals who utilize the organization’s programs and services.

“We are grateful to Senator Erica Harriss for securing this $64,000 investment to support ADA renovations to our bathrooms at Senior Services Plus,” said Theresa Collins, CEO and Executive Director of Senior Services Plus. “Accessibility is essential to ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors can access our programs and services with dignity, comfort, and independence. These improvements will help us continue creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for the older adults and individuals we serve throughout our community. We appreciate Senator Harriss’s commitment to bringing resources to our area and supporting organizations like Senior Services Plus that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Since taking office, Senator Harriss has secured more than $3.5 million in state funding to support first responders, infrastructure improvements and social service organizations across the Metro East.

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