A Cedarville Connection Across the Borderlands

Jodi (Quint) Williams and Jerami Cheatwood walked the same halls at Cedarville University in the 1990s, but their paths never crossed — not until years later, in one of the most unexpected places. These two Cedarville alums met not in Ohio, but in Washington, D.C., as two U.S. Border Patrol agents serving on opposite ends of the country.

They first met in 2017 during a briefing for a major Border Patrol operation during Police Week. When Jodi introduced herself as a Cedarville alum, Jerami was stunned — what were the chances? He had never met another Cedarville graduate in the Border Patrol, let alone one who had risen through the ranks as quickly as Jodi. After the meeting, he made his way over to introduce himself, and their shared Cedarville roots instantly connected them.

Though their careers led them in different directions, their mission remains the same. Jodi serves as the Patrol Agent in Charge in Houlton, Maine, overseeing security operations along the northern border’s vast, rugged terrain. Meanwhile, Jerami works on the frontlines in Southern California, tackling the challenges of illegal crossings, human trafficking, and cartel activity. From the snow-covered landscapes of the north to the sweltering deserts of the south, both Jodi and Jerami serve with dedication and perseverance to protect communities and uphold the law.

Their story is a reminder of how Cedarville alumni are making an impact in extraordinary ways. Though separated by miles, Jodi and Jerami share a common bond — a passion for service, a commitment to integrity, and the foundation of faith instilled in them at Cedarville. Tune in to this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast to hear their incredible journey of courage, leadership, and the unbreakable connection they discovered along the way.