Local Government & Safety Forces Day 2025: The Collaborative Backbone of Medina County
Yesterday, our Signature Class of 2026 had the profound opportunity to dive deep into the operations and collaborative spirit of the people who keep our county running safely. Local Government & Safety Forces Day was an incredible, immersive journey, highlighting the vital connections between our local institutions.
Mayor of Medina Dennis Hanwell 11/20/2025
Part I: Courts, Command, and Community Engagement
Our day kicked off at the MC Career Center (MCCC) South Campus, where we were honored to be greeted by local leadership, including Mayor Hanwell and Mayor-Elect Jim Shields ’96.
The session began with a foundational look into the judicial branch. Magistrate Matt Razavi ’22 provided a deep and insightful overview of the Medina County court system, setting the stage for the legal discussions ahead. To wrap up our time at MCCC, we heard from one of our own! Classmate Jonelle Meredith ’26 of The Sheriff’s Office generously guided us through the impressive Mobile Command Unit, showcasing critical public safety resources.
(A huge thank you to Prosecutor Forrest Thompson’s office for sponsoring our delicious morning donuts and coffee!)
Mobile Command Unit Medina County Sheriff’s Office 11/20/25
Part II: Detention, Rehabilitation, and Key Leadership
Our next stop was the MC Juvenal Detention Center (JDC). We were fortunate to be joined again by Superintendent Megan Millikin ‘ 20 and Assistant Superintendent Greg Hutzel. They shed light on the crucial and compassionate work they do, focusing on connecting with the children in the JDC to help them realize their full potential, followed by an informative tour of the facility.
Next door at The Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), we refueled with a great lunch from Blue Heron, generously sponsored by MCSO. Lunch was paired with a powerful panel featuring dedicated professionals across different facets of safety and support:
Rebecca Byrne ’17, The Director of Administrative Services & Programming
Darren Stout from the Drug Task Force
Gail Houk ’98 from Alternative Paths
The mid-day learning was capped by an inspiring and heartfelt presentation from Sheriff Terry Grice ’15, reminding the class of the dedication required for public service.
Part III: The Judicial System in Action
Magistrate Derek Hale Medina County Courthouse 11/20/25
We concluded our educational day at the heart of our county’s legal operations, The Medina County Courthouse.
The final sessions provided further legal insights from Magistrate Derek Hale ’25. We were then treated to a mid-afternoon snack sponsored by Judge Joyce Kimbler, setting the stage for
the final educational segment on Medina’s legal system. The day wrapped up with valuable perspectives from three distinguished judges: Judge Kevin Dunn, Judge William F. Hutson ’01, and Judge Susana B. Lewis ’14.
A Note of Gratitude
The success of Local Government & Safety Forces Day is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Medina County.
Thank you to every single professional, office, and organization that opened its doors and shared its expertise. You created another truly amazing, comprehensive, and detailed experience for the Signature Class of 2026!