Sheryl A. Horak Law Enforcement Explorer Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by National Law Enforcement Scholarships and Awards
In the year 1985, a young girl named Sheryl Ann Horak, aged 15, became a member of the Bettendorf Police Department Explorer Post No. 9611 in the state of Iowa. Over the subsequent two years, she actively engaged in a variety of post activities, eventually earning the rank of lieutenant. Tragically, on April 25, 1987, Sheryl's life was cut short when she was fatally shot by a mentally unstable person during a post activity. In memory of Sheryl's dedication to the law enforcement Explorers and her aspiration to become a law enforcement professional, Lt. Kim Adamson from the West Valley City, Utah, police department established a fund on August 14, 1987. This fund led to the creation of the Sheryl A. Horak Memorial
Endowment, which aims to offer scholarship opportunities to law enforcement Explorers who show exceptional promise for future careers as law enforcement executives.
The Scholarship
The Sheryl A. Horak Memorial Endowment offers a merit-based scholarship of $1,000, awarded one time only. The number of scholarships given out is contingent on the endowment's yield. In addition to the financial award, recipients will also receive a commemorative plaque and pin. The award ceremony will either take place at the national law enforcement explorer conference or a local event.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is open to any law enforcement Explorer who is at least a senior in high school. Applicants will be assessed based on their academic performance, leadership skills, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a personal statement on their motivation to pursue a career in law enforcement.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the application form and ensure it is certified by the
- Post Advisor
- Leader of the participating organization
- Learning for Life representative
Following this, applicants must submit
- Three recommendation letters (with at least two from non-law enforcement individuals)
- An essay of at least 500 words on the topic "Why I want to pursue a career in law enforcement"
- A copy of their high school transcript (college students must submit both college and high school transcripts)
- A black-and-white glossy photograph (preferably in uniform) for promotional purposes if selected