A Minnesota State University Mankato student was awarded a $2,500 scholarship by Hennepin County Sheriff Foundation (HCSF) today to support her continuing education in the field of law enforcement. The scholarship recipient, Dearest Welwolie, is also a Mankato Community Service Officer and an Army ROTC SMP Cadet with the Minnesota National Guard. She is well known to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office as a former member of its Exploring Scout Post 3744.

“It is an honor to present this award to future law enforcement leader Dearest Welwolie. Dearest has a heart for her community and has already become an accomplished public servant. She inspires those around her with her steadfast commitment to her education and law enforcement career goals,” said Brian Farrell, Chair of the HCSF’s Scholarship Committee.

Monica Novak, another member of the HCSF Scholarship Committee, added, “The Hennepin County Sheriff Foundation is thrilled to present this Dearest with this scholarship to help her reach the next level of her journey in public service.”

The Hennepin County Sheriff Foundation Scholarship Fund was launched in 2009 to support future leaders in law enforcement, and has awarded $37,000 in scholarships to date. Scholarship recipients are selected based on academic excellence, community service, and intent to pursue a career in a field related to Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement. Students interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement may apply for a scholarship online: https://sherifffoundation.org/our-work/scholarships/.