This article was contributed by Adam Breen, San Benito High School Communications Director.
San Benito High School Supervisor of Security Mercedes Berglund was recognized at the SBHS District Board of Trustees’ April 10 meeting for receiving a letter of commendation from the Hollister Police Department. Berglund was presented a Challenge Coin by Hollister Police Chief David Westrick, who said that the longtime campus security supervisor is the first civilian to receive the honor.
In a commendation letter to Berglund, Capt. Carlos Reynoso, a 1987 SBHS graduate, told Berglund that her “professionalism and commitment to your school and the citizens of this community are exemplified in your work and your daily actions.” He added that the HPD is “truly lucky to have someone of your caliber in a position to affect change and provide assistance.”
As part of the commendation, former SBHS School Resource Officer Juan Guevara, who recently became the HPD’s gang officer, praised Berglund for her communication skills in assisting the police department in its partnership with the high school district.
He noted how she made sure that Guevara had the needed equipment — such as a campus radio, keys and transportation around campus — when he was on duty on campus and added that “it is my opinion that the SRO position would not have been as successful had Mercedes’ assistance not been present.”
Berglund was called to the podium during the trustees’ meeting, where she was thanked and congratulated by Guevara, Westrick and the Board of Trustees.