Honoring Patriotism and Leadership at the Glenn College

Published Date January 16, 2026
News Type College News

Christi Scott Bartman, center, at the Patriot Award ceremony with former PSLA graduates, from left, Ohio State Highway Patrol Capt. Tiffiany Meeks and Lt. Kristi Mistovich; Morrow County Sheriff John Hinton and Columbus Division of Police Lt. Daniel Hargus, who both also received the Patriot Award that day; and Columbus Division of Police Commander Amber Rich

By Joan Slattery Wall

The Ohio Department of Public Safety has recognized Christi Scott Bartman, John Glenn College of Public Affairs senior lecturer, with its annual Ohio Patriot Award. 

Bartman, an Air Force veteran who teaches participants in the college’s Public Safety Leadership Academy, was honored among employees, military veterans and others representing law enforcement agencies from across the state. 

The awards recognize those who have committed their lives to service and public good, as well as families with histories of military and law enforcement service that span generations.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Capt. Tiffiany Meeks, a former PSLA student of Bartman, nominated her for the award because of the lasting impact she has had on public safety leaders across Ohio, including herself, with influence that extends far beyond the classroom.

“She consistently demonstrated leadership through her presence by making herself available early, late and whenever needed to support students as they worked through challenges and complex problems,” said Meeks, who works in the patrol’s Strategic Communications Unit. “Behind the scenes, there was never a question about whether she would help guide someone toward success. She was deeply respected for her mentorship, accessibility and genuine investment in the people she served.”

Dr. Bartman’s dedication to education, her commitment to developing law enforcement leaders through the Public Safety Leadership Academy, and her background in military service reflect the values recognized by the Patriot Award. 

Tiffiany Meeks
Captain, Ohio State Highway Patrol

“Her service to the state of Ohio, the public safety community and those she mentors is meaningful and far reaching,” Meeks said. “I was honored to suggest her name and even more grateful to see her recognized as a recipient of the Ohio Department of Public Safety Patriot Award.”

The Public Safety Leadership Academy is a residential training program for senior law enforcement officers from around Ohio designed to retain strong personnel in law enforcement, prepare them for promotion and build the skills necessary to supervise any division within a law enforcement agency.

“I am humbled and proud to be included among so many much more deserving individuals,” said Bartman, who also is founder of Eyes Up Appalachia, an anti-human trafficking initiative. “I am especially proud to be standing beside several of my Public Safety Leadership Academy graduates at the ceremony!”

Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson, in an announcement about the autumn awards, recognized employees, military veterans and others representing law enforcement agencies from across the state. 

“These awards signify more than recognition — they are a tribute to the courage, dedication and selfless service of those who put the safety of others before their own,” said Wilson. “It is an honor to celebrate those who embody the true spirit of duty and patriotism.” 

Learn more about the Public Safety Leadership Academy.