Thursday, November 17, 2022, Ava Donegan was recognized for her assistance for an Excelsior Springs Police Department officer when they were shot during a traffic stop at the beginning of October. She shared great bravery in helping an officer who was faced with extreme danger and uncertainty.
During a Clay County Sheriff’s Department ceremony, Clay County Sheriff Will Akin, Excelsior Springs Police Chief Greg Dull, and City of Excelsior Springs Mayor Sharon Powell each made statements applauding her efforts. She was also awarded with a challenge coin from both the county and local police departments, a proclamation, and a $2,000 scholarship from Chuck Anderson Ford of Excelsior Springs.