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BHC, community honor first responders, civilian heroes

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Published:

May 1, 2026

Awards & Recipients

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Award recipients Tracey Screechfield and Melissa Ketcham representing the Scott Emergency Communication Center; John Swan, retired Colona fire chief; Riley McIntyre, Davenport police officer; and Lowes Schmidt representing recipient Rose Smith, Sherrard school bus driver

Black Hawk College recently honored several area first responders and community members for exemplifying courage, compassion and commitment to public safety.

Students, community members and practitioners were invited to nominate individuals and agencies for the first responder appreciation awards. This year, there were 90 nominations.

First Responder Hero Award

Officer Riley McIntyre, Davenport Police Department

On Nov. 9, 2025, Officer Riley McIntyre of the Davenport Police Department demonstrated exceptional awareness and quick action when a fan experienced a medical emergency during a Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field. While off duty, Officer McIntyre responded without hesitation, providing assistance at a critical moment and ensuring the individual received the help she needed.

Civilian First Responder Hero Award

Rose Smith, Sherrard school bus driver

Sherrard school bus driver Rose Smith showed remarkable courage during a dangerous tornado in Coyne Center, IL. While transporting students, she remained calm under pressure and quickly evacuated them to safety, ensuring no injuries.

First Responder Agency of the Year Award

Scott Emergency Communication Center

Presented in recognition of their outstanding professionalism, excellence in emergency communications, rapid response coordination, and dedication to protecting the community

Lifetime Service Award

John Swan, Colona Fire Department, retired fire chief

Presented in recognition of more than 50 years of dedicated service, exemplary leadership and lasting contributions to the fire service.

Event Information

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The awards were presented at the 6th Annual First Responders Appreciation & Criminal Justice Career Exploration Day at the college’s Quad-Cities Campus in Moline.

More than 140 high school and college students attended and were able to talk to representatives from local and regional first-responder agencies about career opportunities.

The event also included workshops related to safety and security for everyday life, online/internet safety, artificial intelligence in criminal justice and first aid.

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Categories:

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Tags:

awards, criminal justice, fire, First Responders, hero, police, public safety
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