Madison Wilkins, a pre-law student at Indian River State College, won the Edward J. Kiernan Memorial Scholarship from the police union I.U.P.A.

Madison Wilkins of Port St. Lucie has been awarded the Edward J. Kiernan Memorial Scholarship by the International Union of Police Associations, the union said on Wednesday.

Wilkins is studying pre-law at Indian River State College. Her father, Joseph Byrne, is a member of the Port St. Lucie Police Officers Association, I.U.P.A. Local 6015.

In her words

In her application essay, Wilkins wrote: “I have always admired what law enforcement does for our community. Countless days they are serving our city by enforcing the laws, responding to any emergencies, and protecting our citizens. Their role has inspired me in a plethora of ways and has ultimately played a crucial role in deciding what career path I want to pursue in the future.”

The local union

Keith Appelbaum, president of the Port St. Lucie Police Officers Association, thanked the international union for the program.

“The sacrifices made by law enforcement officers are often shared by their families, whose support plays an essential role in our ability to serve our community,” Appelbaum said. “Programs such as this demonstrate that the strength of our union extends far beyond the workplace and into the lives of the families who stand beside us every day. We are grateful for your investment in the next generation and for providing opportunities that help our families pursue their educational and professional goals.”

He added: “We are incredibly proud of her achievement and her dedication to pursuing a career in law. Her hard work, determination, and commitment to her future are worthy of recognition, and we have no doubt she will accomplish great things. Madison, your entire union family is proud of you, and we look forward to following your success in the years ahead.”

About the scholarship

The scholarship was set up in 1999 by Sam A. Cabral, the I.U.P.A.’s international president, in honor of Edward J. Kiernan, a New York City police officer and former president of the union, for his long work to improve the lives of officers and their families.

“The future of America rests in the hands of our youth who choose to pursue careers that serve the public interest,” Cabral said of the award. “We owe it to future generations to support young people who select to dedicate their lives to protecting our communities.”

Who can apply

According to the union, applicants must:

  • Have a parent or guardian who is a member of an I.U.P.A. affiliate.
  • Be accepted at an accredited college or university in law enforcement, labor relations or a related field.
  • Submit a transcript, SAT scores and a letter of recommendation from an official at their school.

The I.U.P.A., chartered in 1979 and based in Sarasota, says it is the only chartered labor union that represents law enforcement personnel exclusively. It represents rank-and-file officers and emergency medical personnel across the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Details are at iupa.org.