VCU Police Capt., psychology graduate receive Governor’s Awards for outstanding service

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A Virginia Commonwealth University police captain and a VCU graduate have been recognized by Gov. Tim Kaine for their public service.

Police Capt. Carlton Edwards and graduate Sue Kennon have received the Governor’s Award for outstanding service to the commonwealth.

Edwards was given the Career Achievement award for bringing a new management focus to the VCU Health System security force, where he was named director a year ago.

Edwards has a reputation for fairness, thoroughness and a life-long affinity for getting along with people, according to a press release from Kaine’s office. He has been a diversity instructor for police and private agencies during his career and has served in leadership positions at the university and in professional organizations.

Edwards has worked his way up the ranks of the VCU Police Department from patrol officer to one of three deputy police chiefs.

Kaine recognized Edwards for his attention to detail, willingness to work cooperatively with people and his strong ethical principles.

“His demeanor and approach to the job has been lauded by university and hospital administrators, and he is credited with reinvigorating the security operation,” Kaine said.

Edwards served consecutive terms as the president of the Central Virginia Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE).

Kennon is an employee with the Department of Correctional Education. She received the Governor’s Award for Innovation for her work in helping prisoners maintain relationships with their children through the Mom’s Inc. and Dad’s Inc. programs.

“A most special piece of this whole effort is Ms. Kennon herself,” Kaine said.

Kennon served time in Virginia’s prison system and while incarcerated earned associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. Two years following her release in 2001 she earned a master’s degree in psychology from VCU. She currently is working on a doctoral degree.

“Ms. Kennon turned a personal setback into a mighty triumph for not only herself but many others who have been in her circumstances,” Kaine said.

“Ultimately, her work has benefits that are far reaching and of great value to the entire commonwealth of Virginia.”

The governor presented awards to six state employees along with a team from the Virginia Department of Transportation during a ceremony May 4 at the Science Museum of Virginia.