Lyon County Sheriff Eric Wallen last Thursday announced the commencement of the Law Enforcement Scholarship Program for 2026. Wallen 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 elected 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 who decide to serve others through a career in law enforcement. This is one way that we can support that honorable decision,” said Deputy Director Brian Johnson.
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 intends to achieve representation from all areas of the state. The scholarship deadline is Nov. 30. Awards will be announced on the MSA web page and on social media at the start of 2027. Application forms and a statement of procedures are available at the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office. Scholarships are available to students currently enrolled in one of the following three categories: Mandated POST Skills Program; in their second year of a two-year law enforcement program; in their third or fourth year of a four-year college criminal justice program.
To qualify, students must have completed at least one year of the two-year program or two years of a four-year program.
