Law Enforcement Academy Recruits To Hold Event For Dustin Ramsey Memorial Scholarship Fund
Through the Dustin Ramsey Memorial Scholarship Fund, Ramsey is memorialized as a talented leader who, even in dire circumstances, remained a resilient and determined fighter.
Ramsey was a law enforcement recruit at the Polk State Kenneth C. Thompson Institute of Public Safety when he lost his battle with melanoma in May of 2012. His determination drove him to never give up on his fight against cancer or his dream of becoming a law enforcement officer. While undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatments, Ramsey continued his training, passed all his exams, and eventually graduated with his class, ensuring his life-long dream was achieved.
Inspired by his amazing example, Ramsey’s Law Enforcement Academy Coordinator at the time, Sergeant Angela Sockwell, approached his class with the idea of starting a scholarship fund to honor Ramsey’s life and commitment to the community. The class planned a barbecue to raise money and establish the Dustin Ramsey Memorial Scholarship Fund, which today offers scholarships between $500 and $1,000 to students in the Law Enforcement Academy.
Dustin Ramsey Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser
Saturday, February 3
6 a.m. – 2 p.m.Polk State Center
for Public Safety
1251 Jim Keene Boulevard, Winter HavenFor more information call 863.699.2909
Each year, the Academy’s recruits hold an event to raise money for the scholarship fund. On Saturday, February 3, a yard and bake sale fundraiser will be held from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Polk State Center for Public Safety, 1251 Jim Keene Boulevard, in Winter Haven. Raffle items will also be available to bid on.
Donations from the community are also welcome and can be made at the Polk State College Center for Public Safety. For more information, contact Sergeant Christine Ford at 863.699.2909. All donations must be received by Friday, February 2.
Since 2012, the Dustin Ramsey Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded nine recruits with a total of $5,500.
To be considered, applicants must include a minimum 1,000-word essay describing career goals, personal achievements, community service, and financial need. Additionally, each applicant must provide a personal statement describing his or her reasons for pursuing a career in law enforcement. The scholarships can be utilized for expenses related to the Law Enforcement Academy, as well as other academic pursuits.
A law enforcement career is one dedicated to public service. Thus it is no surprise that the current recruits at the Polk State Center for Public Safety have joined to continue this great work to celebrate the legacy of Ramsey so that it may continue to flourish and inspire for years to come.