By Rich Larson
Rice County residents studying law enforcement have a chance to earn two scholarships this year with a single application.
In addition to the 18 $2,000 scholarships the Minnesota Sheriffs Association awards each fall, the Rice County Deputy Sheriff’s Association is offering two $1,000 scholarships, according to a release from Rice County. Students statewide may apply for the state association’s awards, but only Rice County students are eligible for both.
The local award is named for longtime Rice County Sheriff Dave Schweisthal, who retired in 1997. His family created the scholarship, and the Rice County Deputy Sheriffs Association provides matching funds so two $1,000 awards can be given each year.
To qualify, students must be enrolled in a mandated POST skills program, be in the second year of a two-year law enforcement program, or be in the third or fourth year of a four-year college criminal justice program.
Both associations said they recognize the value of pre-entry training for people considering a law enforcement career. They also said some students who excel academically still need help covering the cost of that training.
The Minnesota Sheriffs Association’s scholarship committee said it aims to award scholarships to students from every region of the state.
Completed application packets are due by Monday, Nov. 30. They must be delivered in person to the Rice County Public Safety Center, 50 East View Drive in Faribault. The center is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. It will be closed Nov. 11, 26 and 27.
The Minnesota Sheriffs Association will announce its winners early in 2027 on its website, mnsheriffs.org, and on social media. Rice County winners will be notified individually and announced on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, also in early 2027.
Application forms and procedures are available under the Scholarships tab at ricecountymn.gov/208/Sheriffs-Office. Questions may be directed to Deputy Matt Slinger at matthew.slinger@ricecountymn.gov.
Rich Larson is the owner and General manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
