Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), welcomed 47 new troopers during a graduation ceremony at LCBC Manheim. The 176th Cadet Class completed approximately 27 weeks of rigorous training at the PSP Academy to earn the rank of trooper.
“For nearly six months, this dedicated group of women and men demonstrated remarkable strength, leadership, courage, discipline, resilience, and commitment to complete the rigors of the Academy and earn the rank of trooper,” said Lieutenant Colonel Bivens. “I am beyond proud to welcome these brave individuals to our PSP family, and I have the utmost confidence in their ability to successfully serve, protect, and uphold the law across the Commonwealth.”
The 176th Cadet Class is the sixth class to complete the PSP Academy without a college credit requirement for the position of trooper. The Shapiro-Davis Administration eliminated the college requirement for applicants in August of 2023. As a result, the PSP saw a 69% increase in applicants in 2025 compared to 2022, when the college credit requirement was still in place.
During the ceremony, five cadets received special awards and recognition:
- Levi J. Wallace: American Legion Award for all-around academic, physical, ethical, and moral qualifications; Daniel F. Dunn High Scholastic Award for the highest level of academic achievement in the class.
- Gunnar H. Frankenfield: Gesford High Pistol Award for the highest score on the department’s pistol qualification course.
- Tyler Elsdon: Colonel Ronald M. Sharpe Leadership Award for exemplifying the qualities of leadership.
- Brandon W. Knapp: John K. Schafer Memorial Award for the highest combined score on a series of physical skills tests.
- Briar W. Kentzel: Colonel Paul J. Chylak Memorial Driver Proficiency Award for the highest proficiency in driver safety training.
