The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) celebrated excellence in law enforcement at its 2024 Annual Award Ceremony on February 13, 2025.
Officer Nana Amoako was named Officer of the Year for his dedication and proactive policing. Nominated by last year’s recipient, Officer Adrienne Ward, Amoako was praised for his strong work ethic thorough investigations and positive influence on shift morale. He was recognized twice as Officer of the Month in 2024 and recently became a defensive tactics instructor. “I believe he is a great representation of our department’s values,” Ward wrote in her nomination letter.
Lieutenant Kyle Howe, a member of OSUPD since 1998, received the Supervisor of the Year Award. The Annual Award Committee commended Howe for his leadership and emphasis on proactive crime deterrence. “Lieutenant Howe encourages everyone to work hard and have a presence throughout the community,” the committee wrote in its nomination letter. “The committee recognizes Lieutenant Howe as a supervisor who leads from the front.”
Detectives Seth Cooper and Doug Cunningham were honored with the Distinguished Service Award for their outstanding investigative work and mentorship. Detective Cunningham was recognized for his organizational skills and strong relationships with the university’s athletics department, while Detective Cooper was commended for his expertise in missing persons cases and commitment to fostering understanding within the community.
The OSUPD Ordinance Team, consisting of Deputy Chief Alan Horujko, Lieutenant Brandon Yankanin, Officers Jeremy Allen, Joshua Colley, Adam Tabor, Doug Welker and Detective Jason Becker, received the Team Award for its dedication to training and enhancing the division’s tactical readiness. The team’s work in active shooter response and marksmanship training has been instrumental in maintaining high safety standards.
Jason Ross, the property room coordinator, was honored with the Citizen Award for his exceptional contributions. As stated in the nomination letter, “Jason has widely earned the respect and appreciation of the sworn personnel at OSUPD. Jason was tasked with additional court responsibilities in 2024 and has done so with excellence and aptitude.”
In calendar year 2024, OSUPD hired seven new police officers as it continues toward its full authorized strength of 75.
“As we close, we look forward to the year ahead knowing we’re part of a team that consistently sets the standard for professionalism and service,” said Chief Dennis Jeffrey.