DISA Global Solutions is proud to announce the recipients of DISA’s 2024 Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship, an award dedicated to fostering the next generation of professionals committed to positively impacting the criminal justice field. Created in honor of Melissa M. Linville, this scholarship continues Melissa’s legacy of compassion, integrity, and dedication to serving others.
About the Scholarship
DISA’s Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship is designed to support students pursuing post-secondary education with the goal of a career in criminal justice. The scholarship was established in 2014 and offers an annual $500 award to students who demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to the principles of justice, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the field. The scholarship is open to current students in criminal justice programs or high school seniors and recent graduates planning to enter this field. Applicants must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled as full-time or part-time students in the current academic year.
This year, the scholarship was awarded to two outstanding individuals who exemplify the qualities and ambitions this scholarship seeks to encourage.
Meet the 2024 DISA Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship Recipients
Audrey Kuo
Audrey is an ambitious student pursuing a degree in Neuroscience with a unique career path in mind. She aims to become a forensic psychiatrist, a role at the intersection of law and behavioral medicine. Audrey's ultimate goal is to earn a JD/MA degree in legal and forensic psychology, which will equip her with the expertise to advocate for justice within the criminal justice system.
Audrey is deeply committed to her education and has consistently excelled in her studies. She has earned a place on the Dean’s List and Faculty Honors, supported by merit-based scholarships and paid research internships. Her dedication to academic and professional excellence reflects her passion for ensuring that individuals in the criminal justice system receive the mental health support they need.
As a future forensic psychiatrist, Audrey plans to contribute to the fair administration of justice by providing expert testimony and advocating for the mental well-being of those involved in the legal system. The Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship will help her achieve these aspirations, allowing her to continue her education and make a meaningful impact in the criminal justice field.
Jocelyn Johnson
Jocelyn, a rising sophomore at Florida A&M University, is dedicated to pursuing a career in criminal justice, focusing on advocating for justice and addressing systemic issues within the legal system. Majoring in Philosophy and minoring in Political Science (Pre-Law), she has maintained an exceptional academic record, holding a cumulative GPA of 4.0. Jocelyn's academic achievements include credits from Harvard University, where she excelled in courses such as Introduction to Political Philosophy and Introduction to Psychology.
Jocelyn's commitment to law stems from her passion for understanding and improving the complexities of the legal system. Over the past two summers, she has gained valuable experience by observing cases in various courthouses, where she witnessed the challenges and shortcomings within the criminal justice process. These experiences have solidified her resolve to become an attorney who advocates for ethical practices and equitable treatment.
Jocelyn's long-term goals include obtaining a legal degree and establishing a practice that advocates for justice and ensures fair treatment within the legal system. The Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship will support her in achieving these ambitions as she focuses on her studies and developing a successful career in criminal justice.
Continuing Melissa’s Legacy
DISA offers the Melissa Linville Criminal Justice Scholarship to support the educational goals of these students and serve as a tribute to Melissa M. Linville’s lasting impact. Melissa was known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Through this scholarship, DISA continues to honor her memory by empowering students like Audrey and Jocelyn to pursue careers that reflect Melissa’s values of justice, service, and compassion.
We congratulate Audrey and Jocelyn on their achievements and look forward to seeing the positive contributions they will make to the criminal justice field.
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About DISA Global Solutions
Founded in 1986, DISA is the industry-leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. Headquartered in Houston, with more than 35 offices throughout North America and Europe, DISA’s comprehensive scope of services includes drug and alcohol testing, background screening, occupational health, and transportation compliance. DISA assists employers in making informed staffing decisions while building a culture of safety in their workplace.