Students, community members and practitioners were invited to nominate individuals and agencies for first responder appreciation awards. This year, there were 90 nominations.
The 2026 awards and recipients are:
- First Responder Hero Award: Officer Riley McIntyre, Davenport Police Department
- Civilian First Responder Hero Award: Rose Smith, Sherrard school bus driver
- First Responder Agency of the Year Award: Scott Emergency Communication Center
- Lifetime Service Award: John Swan, Colona Fire Department, retired fire chief
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.
Read more about the award winners below:
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.
