Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship Program Now Open

Sheriff Dave Lange of Nicollet County announced today the commencement of the Law Enforcement Scholarship Program for 2025. Sheriff Lange proudly announced that the MSA Board of Directors has established a scholarship fund for the awarding of up to 18 – $2,000
scholarships for this year. These scholarships are due to the coordinated efforts of the 87 Sheriffs of the State of Minnesota.

The MSA gives special recognition to the financial needs of students attending the peace officer skills course or one of the two or four-year law enforcement degree programs around the state. “The MSA Board of Directors acknowledges the current challenges in recruiting and greatly appreciates the individuals that make the decision to serve others through a career in law enforcement. This is one way that we can support that honorable decision.” said Executive Director, James Stuart. “This remains a noble profession and offering these scholarships is another way that we
can promote the profession and support those who wish to serve and protect in our communities.” said Sheriff Lange.

The MSA recognizes the importance of pre-entry training for people considering law enforcement as their career choice. The MSA also acknowledges that some students may need outside help in meeting the costs of such training, even though they excel academically.

The MSA Scholarship Committee, in making its selection of awards, intends to achieve representation from all geographical areas of the state. The scholarship deadline is November 28, 2025. Awards will be announced by December 30th of the same year. Application forms and a statement of procedures are available at the Nicollet County Sheriff’s Office. Scholarships are only available to students currently enrolled in one of the
following three categories:

1. Mandated POST Skills Program
2. In their second year of a two-year law enforcement program.
3. In their third or fourth year of a four-year college criminal justice program.

In order to qualify, students must have completed at least one year of the two-year program or two years of a four-year program. Students meeting these criteria are invited to obtain a scholarship application form from their local sheriff’s office or online at www.mnsheriffs.org .