Celebrating Sheriff Steve Whidden's Remarkable 20-Year Service Anniversary
In an era where dedication to one’s community stands as an essential pillar of strength, Sheriff Steve Whidden has proven time and again that unwavering commitment can lead to significant change. As we celebrate his remarkable 20-year service anniversary with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, we take a moment to honor the tremendous impact he’s had on the community he so deeply cares about
A Foundation of Excellence
Sheriff Steve Whidden’s journey of service began with a strong educational foundation.
A graduate of Naples High School in Naples, FL, he embarked on a path that led him to acquire extensive knowledge in law enforcement. From basic and advanced law enforcement curriculum at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, GA, to an AA degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix in Phoenix, AZ, Sheriff Whidden has consistently pursued excellence in education.
His dedication to professional growth extended to the Kenneth Bragg Public Safety Institute in Tavares, FL, where he completed the basic law enforcement academy. Not stopping there, he further honed his skills at the SWFL Criminal Justice Academy in Ft. Myers, FL, and amassed over 500 hours of advanced training in DEA and State of Florida law enforcement curricula. His commitment to ongoing learning reached its pinnacle when he graduated from the National Sheriffs’ Institute, 99th Session, and engaged in Executive Level Education Management.
Sheriff Steve Whidden – A Career Defined By Service
Sheriff Steve Whidden’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his community. He began his journey with two years at the Albany Police Department before dedicating six years to the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office. His service continued with four years at the Clewiston Police Department, followed by two years as a member of the DEA Special Task Force.
In 2008, Sheriff Whidden’s dedication was further recognized when he was elected Sheriff of Hendry County, a position he has been re-elected to in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
Honors & Affiliations
Throughout his career, Sheriff Whidden has earned numerous accolades and honors, including an Appreciation Award from the DEA in 2005 and being named Employee of the Year by the City of Clewiston, FL in the same year. He has also served on the board of directors for important community organizations like Good Wheels and the Hendry/Glades Mental Behavioral Health Center.
Sheriff Whidden’s commitment to community service extends to his active involvement in clubs and organizations such as the LaBelle Rotary Club, LaBelle Kiwanis Club, and Clewiston Lions Club. He was even recognized as the Girl Scouts of America Supporting Parent and named Citizen of the Year by the LaBelle Chamber of Commerce in 2012. In 2014, he joined the Board of Directors, District 4, Florida Sheriffs Association, further solidifying his dedication to law enforcement and community well-being.
Sheriff Steve Whidden – We’re Celebrating With You!
Sheriff Steve Whidden’s dedication to Hendry County is not merely measured in years but in the countless lives he has touched. As he marks his 20-year service commendation, the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office and the community wish to express their heartfelt gratitude.
Sheriff Whidden’s message to the community on Facebook rings with sincerity: “Thank you Everyone! It is truly an honor to be able to serve you all as Sheriff, and I appreciate the faith and trust you have placed in me over the years. In all honesty, I wouldn’t want to be a Sheriff in any other county and because of you all I truly love it here and love you all! Thanks again!”
Here’s to Sheriff Steve Whidden, a beacon of dedication, service, and inspiration for the Hendry County community. Your commitment to making our community safe and thriving is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to many more years of your remarkable service. Congratulations on this incredible milestone!
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