Missouri State Representative Colin Wellenkamp visited campus to recognize five Lindenwood University Department of Public Safety and Security officers for their heroic efforts over the winter. Rep. Wellenkamp presented each officer with framed resolutions from the Missouri House of Representatives congratulating them “at this proud moment of well-deserved distinction.”

In February, five Lindenwood officers were involved in a water rescue after two students and their dog fell through the ice at Pfremmer Pond. Lead Officer Derek Niebruegge, Officer Connor Pellegrini, Officer Caleb Roux, Certified Officer Jon Snyder, and Officer Tyler Taylor acted quickly to save the students from the frozen pond.

According to the official resolution, Officers Pellegrini and Taylor went into the frozen pond to assist the students. Officer Snyder contacted 9-1-1 and offered reassurance to the student in the water. Officer Roux managed traffic control, allowing first responders to efficiently access the scene. Lastly, Officer Niebruegge coordinated the response and played a key role in keeping the situation under control.

The five officers embodied Lindenwood’s values of having grit, doing what is right, and putting students first during the rescue. Their swift, coordinated response ensured the students and their dog were safely pulled from the icy water. Rep. Wellenkamp’s visit and the presentation of the House resolutions serve as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary work of Lindenwood’s public safety officers and their ongoing role in supporting the University’s mission.