FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Sonji Joyner
Communications Manager, Office of Communications
Prince George’s Community College
joynersr@pgcc.edu
LARGO, MD (July 5, 2024) — Prince George's Community College (PGCC) proudly announces a historic partnership with the Prince George's County Police Department (PGPD) for the Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program. This initiative marks a significant milestone as PGCC becomes the first community college to participate in this expanded legislation, which now includes community college students since its inception in April 2024.
The Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program, designed to support and incentivize the education of future law enforcement professionals, offers financial assistance to Maryland residents pursuing careers in law enforcement and probation. With the inclusion of community colleges in the program, PGCC students now have the opportunity to benefit from scholarships that will ease the financial burden of their education and open doors to rewarding careers in public safety.
"We are honored to be at the forefront of this exciting expansion," said Dr. Falecia D. Williams, President of Prince George's Community College. "Our partnership with the Prince George's County Police Department reflects our commitment to providing our students with high-quality education and career opportunities. This scholarship program is a testament to our shared dedication to fostering a well-educated and well-prepared public safety workforce."
The inclusion of community colleges in the scholarship program is a significant development in Maryland's legislative efforts to support law enforcement education. By extending these benefits to community college students, the state aims to broaden the pool of qualified candidates entering the field, ensuring that diverse and talented individuals can serve their communities.
Percel Alston, Chair and Assistant Professor for the Public Safety and Law Department at PGCC expressed his enthusiasm for the scholarship, stating, "This scholarship program not only alleviates financial stress for our students but also reinforces the importance of education in building a capable and ethical law enforcement workforce. We are excited to see the positive impact this partnership will have on our students and the broader community."
The Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program provides full tuition coverage for eligible students, along with additional financial support for textbooks, fees, and other educational expenses. The annual scholarship award shall be 50% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the eligible institution. To qualify, students must be Maryland residents, enrolled in an eligible program at a participating institution, and committed to pursuing a career in law enforcement or probation upon graduation.
Prospective students interested in applying for the scholarship program can find more information here.
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About Prince George’s Community College
Named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance designated by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security (2022-2027), Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) provides high-quality education and training for the progressive and career-oriented residents of Prince George’s County. From new high school graduates and career seekers to more seasoned professionals and senior citizens looking to enhance their skill sets, PGCC is comprised of students who represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and goals. Serving nearly 25,000 individuals annually, the College is the first choice for higher education for residents of Prince George’s County. Collaborative partnerships, responsive degree and training programs, and a commitment to student success enable PGCC to address diverse education and workforce development demands.
For more information, visit the College’s website at www.pgcc.edu. Prince George’s Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; (267-284-5000); www.msche.org. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council on Higher Education.