Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, when the Alpha Sigma Omega chapter of Lambda Alpha Epsilon (LAE) at Jacksonville State University set out for the annual regional forensics conference in Weyers Cave, Virginia, they knew they had something to prove. With eight members and two advisors, the team spent the nine-hour drive studying a 400-page textbook, preparing for rigorous academic and physical challenges. Their efforts paid off as the team secured 22 awards, including the coveted Spirit and Sweepstakes honors, marking a triumphant return to the competition after a five-year hiatus.
Jax State senior and chapter vice president Sydney Heidrich reflected on the team’s success:
“As the awards kept piling up, the excitement and pride in what we’d accomplished as a team just kept building. It felt like all the time studying, practicing, and working together truly made an impact.”
The chapter excelled across the board, from academic exams to crime scene processing and physical agility challenges. Heidrich emphasized the unique contributions of each member, which made the team well-rounded and resilient.
This year’s attendance marked the chapter’s first participation since 2019, following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and other obstacles. Chapter president Brandy Solis sought special permission to compete in Region 4’s conference, showcasing the chapter’s determination to rebuild and thrive. Recruitment and fundraising efforts paid off, enabling the team to compete and achieve extraordinary results.
“This participation represents a significant milestone in our chapter’s revitalization and underscores our commitment to providing opportunities for professional and academic development,” Heidrich said.
Individual members shone in their respective categories:
- Brandy Solis: 2nd in Upper Juvenile Justice, 2nd in Female Physical Agility, 3rd in Upper Crime Scene with Sydney Heidrich and Samantha Trivette
- Sydney Heidrich: 1st in Female Physical Agility, 3rd in Upper Crime Scene with Solis and Trivette
- Alyssa Morris: Multiple awards, including 1st in Professional Crime Scene
- Olivia Sullivan: First in Upper Criminal Law, and placed in multiple other categories
Even the advisors participated, with Brian Patton and Sheryl Pelletier earning top honors in physical agility and professional exams.
For the Alpha Sigma Omega chapter, the conference was more than a competition—it was a chance to build camaraderie and showcase their commitment to hands-on learning. Heidrich said:
“It’s an opportunity to showcase our strengths, build our reputation within Lambda Alpha Epsilon, and inspire other members by setting a standard of excellence.”
As the chapter looks to the future, their success serves as a testament to the power of teamwork, perseverance, and a shared passion for criminal justice and forensic investigation.
