CDA Receives APCO International Awards for 2026 Emergency Communications Center of the Year and 2026 Director of the Year
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA) has been recognized by APCO International as the 2026 Emergency Communications Center of the Year, while CDA Director David Odom has been named 2026 Director of the Year.
Founded in 1935, APCO International is the world’s oldest and largest organization of public safety communications professionals, representing more than 45,000 members worldwide. The awards recognize outstanding performance in emergency communications and exceptional leadership within the profession.
Recognition from APCO is especially meaningful because it comes from the professionals who understand emergency communications best. Together, these honors reflect Director Odom’s leadership and the extraordinary dedication, professionalism, resilience, and compassion of the entire CDA team as they serve the Tallahassee-Leon County community every day. (Awards accepted by Director David Odom and Operations Bureau Chief Stefanie Nieves)
Tallahassee-Leon County Consolidated Dispatch Agency earned third consecutive CALEA® Accreditation.
CALEA accreditation is widely recognized as the gold standard in public safety. It is awarded only after an extensive review of policies, procedures, operations, and professional practices by independent assessors and the CALEA Commission. Achieving accreditation is about meeting standards but more importantly demonstrating an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, transparency, and excellence in service to our community.
This achievement belongs to every member of the CDA Emergency Communications Family. Every 9-1-1 call answered, every radio transmission, every policy reviewed, every training session completed, and every behind-the-scenes effort contributed to this accomplishment.
Tallahassee-Leon County Consolidated Dispatch Agency Maintains FL-TAC Accreditation with Excellence
Public Safety Telecommunications Operator Jamie Peterson was named the Florida Police Chiefs Association 2025 Dispatcher of the Year.
Jamie’s leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to others were never more evident than during the April 17, 2025, tragedy at Florida State University. As the lead law enforcement dispatcher, he transformed uncertainty into clear, timely, lifesaving communication, providing the men and women responding in the field with the information they needed when every second mattered.
Congratulations, Jamie. Thank you for leading with excellence, and for reminding us that some of Public Safety’s greatest heroes are the ones we rarely see.
**We extend our sincere appreciation to the Florida Police Chiefs Association, (FPCA) for recognizing not only Jamie’s extraordinary service, but also the vital role Emergency Communications Professionals play across every discipline of Public Safety. By honoring a dispatcher from a consolidated emergency communications center, the Association highlights a simple but important truth: Public Safety is strongest when Agencies work together as One Team. Every call for help begins with communication, and every successful response depends on the seamless partnership between all First Responders.
CDA Team Members Recognized at Tallahassee State College’s 2026 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA) proudly celebrated Shift Supervisor Josh Martin, CTO Commander Carmen Finn, and Administrative Services Manager Mary Nicholson, who were recognized at Tallahassee State College’s 2026 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet.
The annual event honors outstanding public safety professionals whose service, leadership, and commitment make a meaningful difference in their agencies and communities. Josh, Carmen, and Mary represent the professionalism, dedication, and spirit of service that define the CDA team.
Their recognition is a well-deserved honor and a reflection of the exceptional people working every day to support public safety and serve the Tallahassee-Leon County community.
CDA Team Members Honored at the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
Three exceptional team members recognized at the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet for their outstanding service and contributions to public safety.
Kentazha “KB” Bradshaw
Public Safety Communications Operator, Doer of All Things, and Recruiter
KB has built a career defined by service, resilience, and a genuine commitment to others. A public safety professional since 2009 and a member of emergency communications since 2013, KB is trained across all four core disciplines and has served as a Certified Training Officer, peer support team member, recruiter, mentor, and community engagement leader. Her influence reaches far beyond the communications center, as she uses her own experiences and personal growth to encourage others, inspire future public safety professionals, and help those around her find purpose through service. KB’s professionalism, compassion, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities to lift others embody the spirit of the 2025 Chris Connell Young Professional Award.
Mike Abbey
Critical Incident Stress Management and Certified Training Officer Coordinator
With more than 35 years devoted to public safety, Michael “Mike” Abbey has created a legacy of quiet, steadfast leadership and service. From his distinguished career with the Tallahassee Police Department, where he rose to Lieutenant and served as TAC Team Commander, to his continued work supporting the Consolidated Dispatch Agency, Mike has dedicated himself to strengthening and caring for first responders. His leadership in Critical Incident Stress Management, peer support, training, and post-incident care has helped countless public safety professionals navigate some of their most difficult moments. Never one to seek recognition, Mike has spent his career simply doing what is right and making those around him better making him a fitting recipient of the 2025 Unsung Hero Award.
Kelli Kilcullen
Public Safety Communications Operator and Accreditation Manager
Over nearly three decades in public safety communications, Kelli Kilcullen has helped shape not only the Consolidated Dispatch Agency, but the profession itself. From helping pioneer the transition to consolidated emergency communications in 2013 to co-authoring foundational public safety telecommunicator training curricula, Kelli’s impact can be seen in operations, quality assurance, training, professional standards, leadership, and technological advancement. Even while serving in executive leadership, she remained committed to working alongside frontline staff, answering calls and dispatching whenever needed. Today, she continues to invest in the next generation through training, mentorship, peer support, and succession planning. Her enduring commitment to people, progress, and public service has created a legacy worthy of her induction into the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Hall of Fame.CDA Team Members Honored at the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
Three exceptional team members recognized at the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet for their outstanding service and contributions to public safety.
Mike Abbey
Critical Incident Stress Management and Certified Training Officer Coordinator
With more than 35 years devoted to public safety, Michael “Mike” Abbey has created a legacy of quiet, steadfast leadership and service. From his distinguished career with the Tallahassee Police Department, where he rose to Lieutenant and served as TAC Team Commander, to his continued work supporting the Consolidated Dispatch Agency, Mike has dedicated himself to strengthening and caring for first responders. His leadership in Critical Incident Stress Management, peer support, training, and post-incident care has helped countless public safety professionals navigate some of their most difficult moments. Never one to seek recognition, Mike has spent his career simply doing what is right and making those around him better making him a fitting recipient of the 2025 Unsung Hero Award.
Kentazha “KB” Bradshaw
Public Safety Communications Operator, Doer of All Things, and Recruiter
KB has built a career defined by service, resilience, and a genuine commitment to others. A public safety professional since 2009 and a member of emergency communications since 2013, KB is trained across all four core disciplines and has served as a Certified Training Officer, peer support team member, recruiter, mentor, and community engagement leader. Her influence reaches far beyond the communications center, as she uses her own experiences and personal growth to encourage others, inspire future public safety professionals, and help those around her find purpose through service. KB’s professionalism, compassion, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities to lift others embody the spirit of the 2025 Chris Connell Young Professional Award.
Kelli Kilcullen
Public Safety Communications Operator and Accreditation Manager
Over nearly three decades in public safety communications, Kelli Kilcullen has helped shape not only the Consolidated Dispatch Agency, but the profession itself. From helping pioneer the transition to consolidated emergency communications in 2013 to co-authoring foundational public safety telecommunicator training curricula, Kelli’s impact can be seen in operations, quality assurance, training, professional standards, leadership, and technological advancement. Even while serving in executive leadership, she remained committed to working alongside frontline staff, answering calls and dispatching whenever needed. Today, she continues to invest in the next generation through training, mentorship, peer support, and succession planning. Her enduring commitment to people, progress, and public service has created a legacy worthy of her induction into the 2025 Heroes in Public Safety Hall of Fame.2025 VFW First Responder Award
Public Safety Communications Operator Ashton Darley was nominated for the Veterans of Foreign Wars First Responder Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication, leadership, and rapid professional achievement. Since joining the CDA in January 2024, Ashton has mastered all four communications disciplines, advanced to Communications Training Officer, and become an FAA-certified drone pilot, drawing on his prior experience as a United States Army veteran. He has since helped mentor fellow drone pilots and devoted significant time to developing policies and procedures for CDA’s Drones as First Responders program, all while maintaining his regular operational and overtime responsibilities. Ashton’s initiative, professionalism, and commitment to serving others exemplify the very best of emergency communications and the values honored by the VFW.
Bruce Davis Recognized at the 2025 Black History Recognition Breakfast
Bruce Davis, Employee Assistance Administrator for the Consolidated Dispatch Agency, was recognized during the 2025 Black History Recognition Breakfast at the Florida Public Safety Institute for his distinguished career, leadership, and commitment to service. With more than 40 years of professional experience spanning government, healthcare, the private sector, and public safety, Bruce brings exceptional expertise in finance, human resources, administration, and organizational leadership to the CDA. A Florida A&M University graduate and accomplished professional holding SPHR, SHRM-CP, and CPA credentials, Bruce has built a career grounded in integrity, hard work, and developing others. His leadership, dedication to community, and commitment to preparing the next generation of professionals make his recognition especially well deserved.
CDA Team Members Honored at the 2024 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
Alessandra "Ally" Shepherd
Shift Supervisor
Alessandra “Ally” Shepherd has distinguished herself as a rising leader whose passion for public safety communications is matched by an extraordinary commitment to the people around her. Since joining the Consolidated Dispatch Agency in 2014, Ally has advanced from reserve operator to Certified Training Officer and Shift Supervisor, while continually taking on additional roles in training, hiring, background investigations, crisis intervention, and de-escalation. Known for her composure, emotional intelligence, positivity, and ability to bring out the best in others, Ally views emergency communications not simply as a career, but as her purpose. Her dedication to strengthening the profession and developing the next generation of public safety professionals embodies the spirit of the 2024 Chris Connell Young Professional Award.
William "Will" Blanton
Public Safety Communications Operator, Doer of All Things, and “The Voice”
For more than three decades, William “Showtime” Blanton has been a trusted voice, mentor, and steadfast presence in public safety throughout Leon County. Beginning his telecommunications career with the Tallahassee Police Department in 1991, Will later helped pioneer the creation of the Consolidated Dispatch Agency and has served as a dispatcher, trainer, recruiter, liaison, public information officer, acting supervisor, peer supporter, and mentor. His calm, compassionate presence earned him a reputation among first responders as “the voice you want to hear on the radio on a bad day.” A U.S. Army veteran and devoted community volunteer, Will’s lifetime of service extends far beyond the communications center. His nearly 33 years of professionalism, kindness, resilience, and unwavering belief in serving others have created a legacy worthy of his induction into the 2024 Heroes in Public Safety Hall of Fame.
2024 VFW First Responder Award
Communications Training Officer Caysee Cruce was nominated for the 2024 Veterans of Foreign Wars First Responder Award in recognition of her outstanding performance, leadership, and dedication to emergency communications. Since joining the CDA in 2022, Caysee quickly distinguished herself as a highly skilled dispatcher, trusted mentor, and exceptional training officer whose commitment has helped every employee trained under her become a successful dispatcher. She has also repeatedly stepped into acting supervisory roles, demonstrating composure, confidence, and professionalism under pressure. Caysee’s initiative, expertise, positive attitude, and commitment to developing others exemplify the very best of the CDA and the public safety communications profession.
2023 Women Who Mean Business Torchbearer Finalist
Kim Powell
LHMC – Behavioral Health Wellness Coordinator
Kim was recognized as a Torchbearer Finalist for the 2023 Women Who Mean Business Awards, honoring women who distinguish themselves through leadership, dedication, and passion in their respective fields. Kim’s recognition reflects her commitment to making a meaningful difference through her work, her leadership, and her service to others. As a Torchbearer finalist, she stood among an accomplished group of women whose contributions set an example for others and strengthen the communities they serve.
2023 VFW 9-1-1 Dispatcher Commendation Award
Emily Carder
Public Safety Telecommunicator and Quality Assurance Specialist
With 18 years of public safety service, Emily Carder has made an extraordinary impact on the quality and consistency of emergency communications in Tallahassee-Leon County. As the CDA’s Quality Assurance subject matter expert, Emily transforms performance review into an opportunity for encouragement, learning, and continuous improvement—earning the trust of her colleagues while helping ensure the highest level of service to the community and first responders. A State-certified Public Safety Communications Operator, adjunct instructor, CPR instructor, and community outreach team member, Emily leads with expertise, authenticity, and heart. On March 14, 2023, she became the first recipient of VFW Post 3308’s 9-1-1 Dispatcher Commendation Award, a fitting recognition of her dedication to strengthening the people behind the headset and the lifesaving service they provide.
David Odom and Altamead Morgan Honored at the 2023 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency proudly celebrated two distinguished public safety leaders recognized at the 2023 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet. Director David Odom received the Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring a career spanning law enforcement, emergency communications, critical incident management, military service, and decades of leadership dedicated to protecting and serving others. Shift Commander Altamead Morgan was inducted into the 2023 Hall of Fame, recognizing more than 30 years of service, including her historic achievement as the first African American dispatch supervisor at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and her instrumental role in the transition to the Consolidated Dispatch Agency. Together, their recognition honors decades of leadership, service, mentorship, and lasting contributions to public safety in Tallahassee-Leon County.
CDA Recognized as a Finalist for the 2023 Working Well Innovation Award
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA) was named a finalist for the 2023 Working Well Innovation Award, recognizing the Agency’s commitment to innovative workplace health and wellness initiatives. Director David Odom and Health Wellness Coordinator Kim Powell represented the CDA at the annual Working Well Breakfast, celebrating organizations dedicated to improving workforce well-being. The recognition reflects CDA’s continued investment in the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of its 9-1-1 professionals—taking better care of the people who answer the call so they can continue taking exceptional care of our community.
CDA Recognized as an Industry Leader at the 2023 Motorola Solutions Summit
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA) was recognized for innovation and excellence at the 2023 Motorola Solutions Summit, attended by more than 1,100 public safety professionals from across North America. CDA’s innovative Behavioral Wellness and Peer-to-Peer Support Program, presented by Behavioral Health Wellness Coordinator Kim Powell and Lt. Mike Abbey (ret.), was featured as a headlining leadership session. Public Safety Communications Operator Teagan Clayton also received special recognition for her exceptional service coordinating law enforcement and emergency response during the October 29, 2022, mass casualty and officer-involved shooting incident on Pensacola Street. Selected from hundreds of nominations, her recognition, along with the national spotlight on CDA’s wellness program, demonstrated the Agency’s leadership in both operational excellence and caring for the people who serve.
CDA Earns Second Consecutive CALEA Accreditation
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA) earned its second consecutive accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) in 2022, reaffirming the Agency’s commitment to the highest standards of professional public safety service. Following a rigorous independent assessment, the CDA was found to be in full compliance with all 207 applicable CALEA standards. In awarding accreditation, the CALEA Commission specifically commended the Agency for its diversity, professionalism, and health and wellness initiatives, recognizing CDA’s continued pursuit of the “Gold Standard in Public Safety.”
Justin Johnson Named 2022 Florida Public Safety Telecommunicator of the Year
Public Safety Communications Operator Justin Johnson was named the 2022 State of Florida Department of Health Public Safety Telecommunicator of the Year, selected from nominees across Florida for his exceptional service and dedication to emergency communications. A member of the Consolidated Dispatch Agency since 2017, Justin is a State-certified telecommunicator and Communications Training Officer skilled across all communications disciplines. Known for his patience, professionalism, attention to detail, and calm presence during critical incidents, Justin exemplified the lifesaving role of emergency communications when his CPR instructions helped save a young person experiencing a medical crisis. His statewide recognition reflects both his commitment to those he serves and the vital work performed every day by public safety telecommunicators.
Jeanine Gauding and Art Kirby Honored at the 2022 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet
The Consolidated Dispatch Agency proudly celebrated two longtime public safety communications professionals recognized at the 2022 Heroes in Public Safety Banquet. Retired CDA Director Jeanine Gauding received the Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring a career that began in 1985 and included instrumental leadership in the creation of the CDA, advancement of communications technology and training, and achievement of state and national accreditation. Public Safety Communications Officer Art Kirby was inducted into the 2022 Hall of Fame, recognizing 28 years of dedicated service marked by professionalism, compassion, extensive operational expertise, and a genuine commitment to the safety of first responders and the community. Together, their recognition celebrates decades of service and an enduring impact on public safety communications in Tallahassee-Leon County.
