In the spring of 2025, the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) launched an art contest to commission a new mural for its Specialized Enforcement Division. High school students from across the community submitted designs showcasing the division’s various units, including the K9 Unit, Tactical Enforcement Unit, Motors Unit, and more.
Originally, CSPD planned to select one winner from the many student submissions to its spring 2025 mural contest. However, thanks to the generous donation of paint and supplies from The Home Depot at 7120 North Academy Blvd., and the exceptional quality of the designs submitted by both Emma Rayman and Jenna Rahal, Chief Adrian Vasquez decided to select two winners. Both artists began work in June to bring their unique visions to life, capturing the spirit of the Specialized Enforcement Division and its various units.
When the contest was launched, Jenna was a senior at Banning Lewis Preparatory Academy in Colorado Springs and was also taking college classes at Pikes Peak State College. “I just felt a sense of awe that I’m able to give this piece, and my time in bringing it to life to the department,” said Jenna Rahal. “Not because they chose me through the contest, but I felt like I got to give a gift to them. It was really inspiring to do that.” Jenna has graduated from high school and is now taking college courses at PPSC.
Emma was a junior at Pine Creek High School in Academy District 20 when she submitted her mural concept, and is now in her senior year at Pine Creek. “Seeing that I could bring a smile, or light, to such a stressful job was so meaningful to me because they protect the community, they have to do all of this work, and so knowing that I can at least bring a little bit of light and de-stressor into that made me feel really good,” said Emma Rayman. “Knowing that I can bring joy to officers through this mural means the absolute world to me. I'm really glad it's in the Specialized Enforcement Division because they deal with some of the most stressful stuff.”
CSPD is proud to now have these beautiful murals on display at our SED facility, showcasing the talent and generosity of these young artists. “This project is a powerful example of how engaging youth in positive ways can strengthen our community,” said Chief Adrian Vasquez. “Emma and Jenna’s artwork not only brightens our building, but they also help to build a bridge between young people and law enforcement, showing how creativity and collaboration can foster mutual respect and understanding, while honoring the men and women of CSPD. These works of art are now part of CSPD history.”