F. Darren Smith Award of Excellence 2024
Nominations now open for the F. Darren Smith Award of Excellence
This award recognizes individuals who are making a meaningful and lasting impact on the advancement of police professional development.

Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN) presented the 2024 F. Darren Smith Award to Betty Froese during the 17th annual Stanhope Conference this past September.
By Natalie Fournier
The Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN) is now accepting nominations for the F. Darren Smith Award of Excellence.
Established in 2012, the award is presented annually at CPKN’s Stanhope Conference and honours individuals in the Canadian police community who demonstrate exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing technology-enhanced learning.
The award commemorates Staff Superintendent F. Darren Smith, whose 33-year career with the Toronto Police Service included pioneering efforts in police professional development through technology and had a lasting impact on national learning models.
Anyone may submit a nomination. Nominees must be employed as a sworn or civilian member in a Canadian police service, police training academy, college, or institution, or be part of a related organization that is involved in police professional development. Completed nominations must be received by Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:45 p.m. Atlantic Daylight Time.
If you are interested in learning more about this award, past award winners, or would like to download a nomination form, please click here.
Nominations can be emailed to communications@cpkn.ca.