In the rush of calls, shifts, and changing priorities, it’s easy to lose sight of what first inspired you to serve. National First Responders Day is a reminder to pause and reflect on why you chose this career.
As we lead up to National First Responders Day, this is the perfect time to reconnect with that sense of purpose. Every first responder’s journey is unique, yet all share the same core motivation: a commitment to protect, to serve, and to make a difference. Whether it began in childhood, through family tradition, or in a single life-changing moment, your “why” continues to fuel the dedication that defines the public safety profession.
At Lexipol, we’re deeply honored to have so many past first responders across every department helping guide our company each day. Their lived experience shapes everything we do, from developing policies and training to creating wellness programs that meet the real needs of those who serve.
Not every story looks the same, and that’s what makes this community so special. Today, we’re proud to share a few of the inspiring journeys from our own Lexipol team, men and women from all walks of life, at all stages of life, who answered the call in their own way and continue to make a difference through their work today.
A Calling That Takes Many Forms
For Jeremy Sloan, Director of Strategic Alliances, service began with the desire to be part of something greater.
“I always saw myself as wanting to be a part of something bigger than myself,” he says. “A career in law enforcement offered me that plus a real sense of mission. I don’t feel like I ever left public safety. I’m still working hand in hand with agencies every day to reduce risk, improve operations, and save lives.”
Lisa Harrell, a former 911 dispatcher and now Customer Success Manager, discovered her calling in an unexpected place.
“This may sound a little silly, but I always loved the show Rescue 911 with William Shatner,” she recalls. “I remember thinking, ‘How does someone become a dispatcher?’ That curiosity stuck with me, and years later I saw an opening in Mesquite, Texas, and applied. Today, I help agencies focus on wellness because getting home safely isn’t enough. First responders need to be mentally and physically well so they can reach retirement healthy and whole.”
For Jennifer Ellasces, her story began with loss, and the mentorship that followed.
“While I was in college, I lost my father, who was my hero,” she says. “One of my professors saw me struggling and took me under his wing. Through his 32 years of law enforcement stories, he showed me what it meant to serve with purpose. That inspired me to change my major to criminal justice and pursue a career where I could help people in their hardest moments.”
Gloria Sepanik discovered her second act of service later in life.
“After running a family business for 30 years, I realized I wanted to give back more directly,” she explains. “I saw a job posting at our local police department and decided to apply. Becoming a dispatcher allowed me to help people in their most critical moments. That sense of service became a new calling for me.”
And Brian Caloiaro was inspired by family tradition.
“My father proudly served as a member of the New Jersey State Police for 25 years,” he says. “He was deeply committed to the philosophy of community policing, and that left a lasting impression on me and my brothers. For us, policing has always been more than a career; it’s a calling rooted in family, community, and a commitment to making a difference.”
Different Paths, One Purpose
No two stories are the same, and that’s what makes this community remarkable. Some joined to continue a family legacy. Some felt a sudden pull to serve. Others found purpose through moments of hardship or mentorship.
What unites them all is the same core belief: service matters. Answering the call, no matter where it leads, is worth it.
So, as we approach National First Responders Day, take a few minutes to pause and think about what first inspired you. Remember the spark that started your journey. Write it down. Record it. Keep it somewhere you can return to when the days get hard.
Because your story matters, and your “why” is what keeps you strong.
