LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Adrian Richardson was nominated by an anonymous colleague.

Deputy Richardson began his time at Winter Springs High School during the 2016-17 school year, after previously serving as a school resource deputy at a local elementary school.  His career has spanned across three law enforcement agencies in two states.

Upon his arrival at Winter Springs High School, Deputy Richardson immediately took a sense of pride and ownership regarding his assignment.  He didn't view his role at the school as a position to work, but as an integral part of a larger family. His enthusiasm was evident almost immediately, and he wasted no time immersing himself into the school culture.  During his first year as the resource deputy, Deputy Richardson was recognized by the school as Employee of the Month, which showed what an immediate impact he made on the faculty, staff and students. 

The Seminole County Sheriff's Office has taken a forward thinking and proactive approach in the realm of school safety and security.  Even before the tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and the legal mandates that followed, every public school in Seminole County had a sworn law enforcement officer assigned to the campus at all times. The deputy sheriffs and municipal police officers were empowered to take active roles in planning, decision making and guidance with regard to safety and security issues. These champions worked collaboratively with school administrators to create safer, more secure learning environments.

Deputy Richardson has taken the mantle of school safety practitioner with a positive, professional and engaging attitude.  There is no need to even ask him what he thinks or believes, because his actions speak so much louder than words.  He has consistently patrolled the campus and sought to interact with anyone he can.  Regardless of a student's situation in life, he has always maintained positive and professional relationships, with desires to truly impact and help all students. He has a passion to be a positive role model and make a difference in the lives of youth, and he has an innate ability to connect with the students and adults, alike, in ways many are unable.  He takes the time to listen and give feedback, with the intention of addressing the root causes of issues, not just the surface problems. Deputy Richardson understands he should not only seek to address the symptoms, but prevent what has created problems in the first place.He has always been counted on to help faculty members by providing classroom presentations and informal counseling to help students of all walks achieve greater successes in life.

Deputy Richardson has remained involved with students who engaged in extracurricular activities, whether it's by helping with the weightlifting team or talking with football players about an upcoming game.  He has also been known to wear shoes that represent the Winter Springs High School colors to show his support for the school.  A student who attended the school was the victim of a random drive-by shooting in another area of Seminole County while he slept in his home.  When Deputy Richardson learned of what happened, he wanted to help the young man.  He knew the student was a basketball fan, so he used his community contacts to obtain a basketball signed by members of the Orlando Magic professional basketball team and presented it to the student.  This is simply one of a number of actions Deputy Richardson has taken on to have positive effects on the students at his school.

"Whenever I have the opportunity to visit the Winter Springs High School campus, I never find Adrian in one place," said his nominator. "He is always moving and never predictable.  He understands the importance of staying random and not falling into a routine.  Regardless of what he does to maintain proper situational awareness and personal safety, he always makes sure to engage with students and help them see him as a mentor.  Watching Adrian interact with students, faculty and staff, and the way he conducts himself on a daily basis provides me with a great understanding as to why he is so valued where he works."

"Adrian is also a consummate professional and does not lose focus on what his position as a deputy sheriff represents, the nominator continued. "I can always count on him for honest input and sensible solutions to issues presented.  He is always looking out for concerning matters related to safety and security, and he is proactive to address concerning incidents or behaviors and ensure they do not progress.  He works very well with other law enforcement and public school professionals, and he has developed great relationships to better resolve a variety of matters.  Adrian's work ethic is second-to-none, and I have great confidence he will develop into a tremendous leader."

"Adrian embodies what the role of a school resource law enforcement officer is meant to be.  He has taken on a myriad of roles that include: law enforcement officer, social worker, mentor, friend and guide," said his nominator. "He does not view his position merely as a job or a means to an end. Adrian knows the role is so much more than just being 'the cop on campus,' and views it more as a partner with the community."