HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024 Public Safety Employees of the YearContact: Lauren Siebenaler, Senior Communications Coordinator
Phone 952-833-9537 • LSiebenaler@EdinaMN.gov • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Three Employee of the Year Awards Announced at Public Safety Recognition Banquet
Edina, Minn., Feb. 28, 2025 – Three Edina staff were honored at the Edina Crime Prevention Fund’s second annual Public Safety Recognition Banquet Saturday, Feb. 22.
The 2024 Public Safety Employee of the Year award was given to Communications Unit Leader Andrew LaVenture. In 2012, LaVenture started his career as a paid-on-call firefighter, and moved
into his current role in 2021. He was given the award for his help in implementing and training staff on Smart 911.
“Andrew is a part-time employee who has an impact every single day,” said Fire Chief Andrew Slama. “He has taken Smart 911 communications to a new level.”
Firefighter Dan Schlick was named the 2024 Firefighter of the Year. Schlick has been with the department since 2019. He was given the award for his dedication to improving the department
and all its personnel. In his five-plus years with the Edina Fire Department, he’s chaired its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Committee, helped rewrite department protocols, assisted
with the evaluation and implementation of new technology and taught numerous medical training courses.
“Dan has always had a passion to ensure our EMS systems are always improving,” said Slama. “From managing supplies to developing skills, he ensures we are implementing the very best
for our staff and residents.”
The 2024 Mike Siitari Officer of the Year award was presented to Officer Sean Young. Young has been with the department since 2011. He was given the award for his unwavering commitment
to public safety. Young served as a K9 Officer with his partner Blitz for eight years. When Blitz retired at the end of 2023, Young transitioned to his current role as Retail Crimes
Investigator at Southdale Mall. In 2024, Young arrested over 130 individuals in retail related crimes.
“His proactive approach has been instrumental in fostering cooperation and trust, which has proven to be vital into combating retail crime,” said Chief Todd Milburn.
In addition to the three employee of the year awards, many other staff in the departments were recognized for their hard work over last year.
For more information about the Edina Police and Fire Departments, visit EdinaMN.gov.
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