Posted by jzossmt |
May 7, 2026
The Metro Transit Police Department recognized top performing officers, civilian staff, and partners at its annual awards on Friday, May 1. Among those honored at the event were:
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Officer Kham Vang, Officer of the Year. Kham was recognized for his work to connect with frontline staff and recruitment efforts, as well as his dedication, humility, and commitment. He has a true heart for service, bringing a calm, positive, and uplifting presence to all that he does.
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Officer Patrick Baumgardner, Rookie of the Year. Patrick was recognized for exceeding all expectations in his first year with the agency. In his time with MTPD, he has demonstrated professionalism, compassion, curiosity, and a strong work ethic.
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Kara Iverson, Civilian of the Year. Kara constantly takes on responsibilities beyond her role, plays a critical role in planning department events, tracks goals progress, among other duties that keep the agency running smoothly. She does it all with professionalism, humility, and positivity.
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Lt. Kadra Mohamed, Supervisor of the Year and Lt. Beverly Rodriguez Service Award. Kadra was recognized for her recruitment work, which led to record-breaking hiring of Community Service Officers, and for leading with heart, vision, and a tireless work ethic. Her dedication, kindness, advocacy, and mentorship are also the reasons she received the Lt. Rodriguez Service Award, which is given to the officer who best exemplifies the late Lt. Rodriguez’s dedication to service and compassion.
Additionally, a Unit Citation Award was presented to the Patrol Division, which responds to incidents across the transit system. Patrol officers have worked tirelessly to increase their presence on the system over the last year.
Ramsey County Attorney John Choi and Ramsey County Deputy Manager Gloria Reyes were also recognized for their partnership on the Safe & Strong University Avenue Collaboration, a collaborative approach between law enforcement, service providers, and county resources focused on the Green Line corridor.
Nominations were submitted by MTPD staff and vetted by the Awards Committee. Award guidelines are defined by the MTPD policy manual.
View the full list of award recipients here.