Normal Police Detective & Torch Run Officer, Wins Distinguished Service Medal by the Presidential Service Center for her work with Special Olympics Illinois
This June, for the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games, the Law Enforcement Torch Run ceremoniously runs the torches from all points around the state to the 10,000+ athletes, coaches, volunteers, families at the Special Olympics Summer Games Opening Ceremonies in Bloomington/Normal. For one of those officers, the light in the torch will be shining brightly along with the light in her heart.
Normal Police Department Detective, Nikki Bruno is just that person and in a ceremony on May 17th by the McLean County Republican Party, she was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by the Presidential Service Center for helping to give back and make the Normal, IL community a better place. The award was presented by past award winner and White House Executive Chef to the past five Presidents, Martin Mongiello.
As part of her giving back, most of this work has been with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois, which is the single largest fundraiser throughout our state. Nikki is described by all who know her as caring, dedicated, hardworking, humble, passionate, driven and impactful to help someone who may need a coat, a meal for Thanksgiving, aid a family of a fallen officer and support the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois. All that being said about her, she will tell you that most of what she does is a group effort and the award is deserved by many people who give back.
As one of the nominations stated, “The impact of Nicole Bruno is felt daily by those members of our community who use the services that she supports”. This statement is a reflection of how she feels about the town she calls home as well. “In Normal, we are fortunate to have a community that has many opportunities to volunteer and be a part of giving back”, Bruno said. That along with the support she received from her Lieutenant, M. Paul Smith throughout the nomination process makes Detective Bruno extremely appreciative and respectful of what she has and will always continue to give back.
This June, for the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games, many flames were lit brightly in support of our athletes. None brighter than the one inside Nikki’s heart. Thanks for all you do for the Law Enforcement Torch Run and for the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois. An award well deserved!