Highway Patrol Honors Trooper, Dispatcher of the Year
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Nov. 10, 2026) – Two members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s New Philadelphia Post are being recognized for outstanding service.
Trooper Ethan Roden has been named the Post’s 2026 Trooper of the Year, while Dispatcher Shannon Grant was selected as the 2026 Dispatcher of the Year.
Post Commander Lt. Brian Sponaugle says both were chosen by their peers and supervisors for their professionalism, leadership, and dedication to duty.
Roden, a Sugarcreek native and Garaway High School graduate, joined the Patrol in 2023 and was recognized for his leadership and service to the public and fellow troopers.
Grant, a Highway Patrol dispatcher since 2012, was honored for her expertise, teamwork, and role in training new dispatchers.
Both now advance to district-level competition, where they will compete for District Trooper and Dispatcher of the Year honors later this month.