W'bago native earns chiefs' respect
Sarah Day — Staff WriterArticle Photos
WINNEBAGO - A former Blue Earth Area track star is quickly earning recognition in the law enforcement field.
Cory Stauffer of Winnebago has received a $750 scholarship from the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association - one of just 10 such scholarships awarded this year.
Stauffer is a 2007 graduate of Blue Earth Area, where he was a standout on the track and field team.
Winne-bago Police Chief Bob Toland believes Stauffer's athletic skill and ability to communicate with the community are why he was awarded the scholarship.
"He's a hard-working young man," Toland said. "I look forward to him becoming a police officer and serving our state."
Stauffer didn't see the award coming.
"When Bob told me I just really didn't know what to say," he recalls. "I was pretty much amazed I got it."
Stauffer was required to write why he was suitable for the scholarship, get an endorsement from his college, and get a letter of recommendation, which Toland wrote. The application required a academic transcript as well as lists of activities and leadership responsibilities.
"I'd just like to thank Bob a lot for his letter of recommendation," Stauffer said.
"Cory got this on his own merit," Toland added.
Stauffer is in the law enforcement program at Alexandria Technical College, and the funds will go toward tuition and books.
He just started his second year last week, and he is excited. Last year was a lot of book work, while this year will be more hands-on.
"This week or next week we start the driving and shooting range," Stauffer said.
He also is beginning criminal investigations and has his first report due today.
Stauffer is interested in law enforcement for several reasons.
"Nothing's ever the same," he said. "Every call isn't gonna be the same. I don't like repetitious work. (Law enforcement) is probably one of the best ways to help your community."
The Minnesota Chiefs Scholarship fund is an award given by the association president, Rob Yates. Recipients are chosen by the president and the board of directors. The association looks for high standards, skills, abilities and personal traits.
Toland said one other former Winnebago resident - Adam Wiederhoeft - received the award four years ago. Toland believes Wiederhoeft was the first from Winnebago to be awarded the scholarship.
