VIRGINIA BEACH, VA -- Members of the news media are invited to attend the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office (VBSO) Basic Academy Class 62 Graduation Ceremony, where Sheriff Rocky Holcomb will present the inaugural Ken Stolle Innovator Award to a sworn deputy or civilian whose creativity, ingenuity and forward-thinking solutions have enhanced public safety, operational efficiency, deputy wellness and community engagement.
"The Ken Stolle Innovator Award honors a legacy of leadership that challenged us to think differently and continually improve," said Holcomb. "We are excited to recognize the first recipient, whose work embodies that same spirit of innovation and service."
This award is named in honor of former Sheriff Ken Stolle, a visionary leader who consistently turned bold ideas into meaningful progress for the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office, the City of Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth of Virginia. His legacy of innovation continues to shape the VBSO, and this award carries that spirit forward.
Stolle served the public for 43 years prior to his retirement in 2023, including as a Virginia Beach police officer, U.S. Navy Reserve office and state senator. He culminated his public service career as Virginia Beach’s sixth sheriff, winning four elections and serving from 2010 until his retirement in 2023. He was a champion for public safety and mental health reform.
Nominees for the Ken Stolle Innovator Award are innovators in areas such as:
- Operational improvements (corrections, court procedures, etc.)
- Technology and data solutions
- Community engagement initiatives
- Officer wellness and safety programs
- Administrative efficiencies and cost-saving measures
Event Details
- What: Basic Academy Class 62 Graduation and Presentation of the Inaugural Ken Stolle Innovator Award
- When: 9 a.m., Thursday, June 25
- Where: 31st Street Park, Virginia Beach Oceanfront