MANHEIM, PA On August 22, 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris welcomed 59 new troopers at a graduation ceremony for the 173rd Cadet Class at LCBC Manheim. This ceremony marked the successful completion of an intensive six-month training program that equipped these recruits with the skills, discipline, and commitment required to serve Pennsylvanias communities. Governor Shapiro expressed his pride in the new troopers, praising their dedication to public service. 'Policing is a noble professionand the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police go to work every single day to protect and serve our communities,' Shapiro said. 'Today, these cadets join their ranks after completing one of the most challenging and rigorous law enforcement training programs in the nation.' The 173rd Cadet Class is the third class to graduate under the Shapiro Administrations policy change that removed the college credit requirement for new troopers. This move has significantly increased the number of applicants, with over 820 individuals applying during the most recent application cycle. The change reflects a broader effort to increase diversity and inclusivity in the PSP ranks, with a focus on making the force more reflective of the communities they serve. During the ceremony, special recognition was given to six cadets who excelled in different aspects of their training. Kaleb T. Smith received the prestigious American Legion Award for his all-around excellence, including academic achievement, physical fitness, and ethical standards. Preston Sacco earned the Gesford High Pistol Award for his superior marksmanship during the departments pistol qualification course. Other awards included the John K. Schafer Memorial Award for the highest physical test scores and the Colonel Paul J. Chylak Memorial Driver Proficiency Award for excellence in driving safety training. The recruits completed a rigorous program designed to develop a wide array of skills essential for law enforcement officers. Their training included everything from physical conditioning to criminal law, with a strong emphasis on ethics, leadership, and community engagement. The cadets were also trained in firearms safety and tactics, driver training, criminal justice procedures, and handling real-world situations such as high-speed chases, suspect apprehension, and emergency response. Governor Shapiros 2025-2026 budget proposal includes additional funding for the Pennsylvania State Police, continuing to invest in the departments expansion and professional development. The budget includes $16 million to support the creation of four additional cadet classes, which will ultimately add nearly 400 new troopers to the PSPs ranks. In addition, the proposal calls for the removal of the statutory cap that limits the number of troopers allowed on the streets, which would enhance patrol visibility, shorten response times, and improve overall public safety in Pennsylvania. The graduation ceremony also highlighted the growing importance of community-based policing. PSP Colonel Christopher Paris emphasized the critical role these new troopers would play in fostering trust and safety within Pennsylvanias communities. 'Today is the culmination of months of hard work, determination, bravery, and selflessness,' Paris stated. 'I am confident these new troopers will answer the call to serve and protect with honor and commitment.' As part of their field training, the new troopers will be assigned to different regions across the state, where they will continue to build on the foundational skills they developed during their academy training. The ongoing professional development will include annual recertification in areas such as firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, and law enforcement ethics.