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The LAFD Scholarship Fund annually selects Merit Scholars from applicants who are:
a) Dependent children or stepchildren of active or fallen LAFD sworn employees who have completed probation, and
b) High school seniors who will be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university in the upcoming academic year.
Merit Scholar awards are up to $40,000 ($10,000 per year while enrolled in college). Runners-up receive a one-time $7,500 grant.
Awards are based on merit. Academic achievement is the primary factor, but the all-civilian Selection Committee also considers personal character and extracurricular achievements. To assist in this process, each applicant must obtain two recommendations—at least one from a teacher or counselor, and none from relatives.
The Recommendation Form has two parts:
Ranking Grid – Evaluate the applicant’s skills compared with other high school seniors and college freshmen you have known. Highest rankings should be supported with specific examples.
Letter to the Selection Committee – At a minimum, please:
- State how long and in what capacity you have known the applicant.
- Highlight how the applicant distinguishes themself among peers.
- Provide specific examples of commendable behavior (e.g., respect for others, honesty, integrity, personal accountability) that you have personally observed.
All communications with the Selection Committee are confidential. The Board of the LAFD Scholarship Fund appreciates the time and effort involved in preparing a recommendation and thanks you for your assistance.
If you have questions, contact Ms. Aggie Rodriguez at (213) 435-6095 or LAFD.Scholarship@lacity.org.
Signed recommendations should be sent directly to Ms. Rodriguez by email or by regular mail to:
Aggie Rodriguez
c/o The LAFD Scholarship Fund
1700 Stadium Way, Suite 114
Los Angeles, California 90012
Applicant Recommendation (Grid) Form download PDF