Woohoo Blake!

NEWS RELEASE

LAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM

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ROSCOMMON, MI — Roscommon High School graduate Blake Erickson has been awarded a $1,000 Law Enforcement Education Program (LEEP) Dream Scholarship.

He is among 22 top students who will receive the award to encourage their pursuit of law enforcement/public safety careers by the professional public safety officers of LEEP.

He plans to use his $1,000 LEEP Dream Scholarship at Lake Superior State University to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice/Public Safety. He plans to become a State Trooper or attend law school.

“I deserve this scholarship because after years of ride alongs, college courses, personal research, and one very challenging Student Academy I have figured out that Law Enforcement is the only career for me. It’s my calling,” wrote Erickson in his scholarship application.

Erickson, who graduated high school with a 3.15 GPA, was a member of the golf team and Quiz Bowl Captain for four years.

“Blake sets himself apart from most students because of his incredible knowledge and understanding of a wide variety of topics – from science, history and English to music, sports and pop culture. There are very few students who know so much about such a wide spectrum of topics, than Blake,” wrote James Perialas, Roscommon High Quiz Bowl Advisor.

His community involvement includes Gerrish Township Police Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), American Legion State Police Training Program and Boys State Citizenship Training Program, Roscommon County Youth Advisory Council (YAC), Michigan State Police Trooper Camp, Umpire for Roscommon Little League, and LINK mentor for children with Autism.

He received a certificate for demonstrating knowledge and skill in Criminal Justice; an Academic Excellence Award for Public Safety/Protective Services Program; and honors for outstanding academics and perfect attendance.

“Outside the classroom, Blake spends his time serving others,” Perialas wrote. “He is a member of two campus organizations that help those who need it. LINK group is an autism support group that pairs students with autism with students like Blake to help them acclimate to high school life. He also serves on the RHS Youth Advisory Council … on its panel, which listens to presentations by local charities and youth organizations, and determines how much grant money each organization should receive.”

In its 12th year, LEEP has awarded some $162,000 in Dream scholarships to students showing a demonstrated interest in public service/law enforcement careers.

The non-profit public safety group’s scholarship program is made possible by a growing list of national supporters. Visit www.leepusa.com for more information about LEEP programs.

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