On November 6, 2025, the 2025 Juvenile Court Judges Commission (JCJC) 45th Annual Awards Banquet recognized the talents and efforts of professionals and youth dedicated to improving the justice system.
The Center for Juvenile Justice Training & Research (CJJT&R) has been located at Shippensburg University since 1982. The CJJT&R was created as an education and research arm of the JCJC. The JCJC’s Professional Development and Detention Monitoring programs and the Information Technology Division are based at the CJJT&R. The Professional Development program includes the JCJC-sponsored Graduate Education Program, offered in conjunction with Shippensburg University’s Criminal Justice Department since 1982, shortly after the CJJT&R’s establishment. Additionally, Shippensburg University administers grants supporting the Professional Development program, the Secure Detention Monitoring program, and the Information Technology Division.
Shippensburg University criminal justice major Lindsey Haser was presented with the Dr. Thomas L. Austin Undergraduate Award, honoring her academic achievement and commitment to juvenile justice. Alumna Mercedes Olvera was presented with the Dr. Anthony F. Ceddia Award, granted each year to a recent Ship graduate who represents academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to juvenile justice.
Lindsey Haser – Dr Thomas L. Austin Undergraduate Award
A New Cumberland, Pennsylvania resident, Lindsey Haser graduated from Trinity High School in 2019. She is a criminal justice major with a minor in psychology and a certificate in victimology and victim services at Shippensburg University. Haser interned with the Dauphin County Juvenile Probation Department and served as a community service officer with the Mechanicsburg Police Department. Her many extracurricular activities include membership in Tau Kappa, Shippensburg University’s all-women honors athletic sorority; The Hidden Opponent, an advocacy group that raises awareness for student-athlete mental health; and the softball team as a four-year utility infielder. Additionally, Haser was recognized as a National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar Athlete and earned the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Scholar-Athlete Award and Shippensburg University Dean’s List.
After graduation, Haser is interested in pursuing a career in juvenile justice or law enforcement.
In her free time, Haser enjoys golfing, hiking, kayaking and working out.
Mercedes Bedolla Olvera – Dr. Anthony F. Ceddia Award
Mercedes Bedolla Olvera is a quality assurance and continuous quality improvement officer with the Delaware County Juvenile Court and Probation Services department. Olvera is a proud first-generation college graduate, having earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She graduated summa cum laude from DeVry University with a bachelor’s degree in justice administration.
In 2020, Olvera transitioned from a seven-year career in the banking industry to begin her journey in the juvenile justice system as a juvenile probation officer in Delaware County. This career shift marked a turning point in her professional life, as she discovered a deep passion for supporting system-involved youth on their paths toward rehabilitation and success. Since completing her graduate coursework at Shippensburg, Olvera has advanced into her current role, where she continues to contribute to positive outcomes for youth by promoting effective practices and systemic improvement.
Olvera is an engaged member of her local community and volunteers with Fostering Hope of Delaware County, Action Karate of Drexel Hill, and Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania – Troop 540. In her free time, Olvera also enjoys spending quality time in nature, discovering great food, listening to music and going on walks. She cherishes her time with her husband, Roger, their daughters Lucy and Lailah and their newest addition, Bernie the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Shippensburg University is proud to recognize Haser and Olvera’s excellence and dedication to juvenile justice, and wishes them continued success.
