Recognizing the Unseen Heroes Who Serve as a Lifeline in Times of Crisis
NiCE is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 PSAPs’ Finest Awards, commemorating two decades of honoring the dedicated professionals who form the backbone of emergency response. Over the past 20 years, the annual recognition program has spotlighted hundreds of exceptional individuals and teams in public safety emergency communications, underscoring their indispensable role in safeguarding communities.
In an era where emergency response is increasingly complex and demands are escalating, the work of 911 professionals in all roles remains as vital as ever. From directors and supervisors who oversee staff and operations, to technicians who keep systems running flawlessly, from trainers to telecommunicators who answer every call with skill and calm—the collective expertise of 911 professionals saves lives and strengthens communities.
The 2025 PSAPs’ Finest Award recipients are:
Award winners are selected by an independent panel of volunteer judges from the public safety community who evaluate nominees based on their skills, knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to service.
Chris Wooten, Executive Vice President, NiCE, stated, “For two decades, the PSAPs’ Finest Awards have illuminated the often-overlooked yet profoundly impactful work of 911 professionals. These individuals are the critical link that connects those in need with life-saving resources in times of crisis. This year’s honorees exemplify excellence across every role in the 911 center, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements on this milestone anniversary.”
One of this year’s judges of the PSAPs’ Finest Awards, Commissioner Julie K. Corn (Onondaga County Department of Emergency Communications – 911 Center), added, “So much of what 911 professionals do happens behind the scenes—often unseen by the public and even by partners in the field. Yet these men and women are truly the first first responders. They carry the weight of intense stress while providing exceptional service, day after day. Many go far beyond call-taking and dispatch, shaping advancements in technology, innovation, training, and leadership—the very foundation of a strong public safety system. Reviewing the nominations was both inspiring and humbling, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to recognize such remarkable individuals.”
Nominations for the 2026 PSAPs’ Finest Awards, marking the twenty-first year of the recognition program, will open in January 2026. More information can be obtained on the PSAPs’ Finest website or by emailing PSInfo@NiCE.com.
Director of the Year: Brett Loeb, Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch Center (Aspen, CO)
Line Supervisor of the Year: Kelli Mehaffey, Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (Spokane, WA)
Technician of the Year: Jerold Leaverton, Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (Riverside, CA)
Telecommunicator of the Year: Allison Weil, Hutchinson-Reno County Emergency Communications (Hutchinson, KS)
PSAP of the Year: Los Angeles Communication Center (LACC), California Highway Patrol (Los Angeles, CA)
Trainer of the Year: Dustin Bennefield, St. Petersburg Police Department (St. Petersburg, FL)
Innovator of the Year: Ian Carmona, Control One, Orange County Sheriff’s Department (Orange County, CA)
Lifetime Achievement Award: J. Barbara Harper, Cleveland Division of Police, Bureau of Communications and Property Control (Cleveland, OH)
Above & Beyond Award: Cathy Chin, Department of Emergency Management, Division of Emergency Communications (San Francisco, CA)
