INA, Ill. (May 19, 2026)— Law enforcement leaders in Jefferson County recently reaffirmed their commitment to the next generation of first responders with a combined $1,500 scholarship donation to RLCF for the benefit of students who are enrolled in the Rend Lake College Criminal Justice program.
Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Bullard and Mt. Vernon Police Captain Jeremy Reichert visited the campus to present checks from their respective agencies. This contribution marks the 15th consecutive year the program has received scholarship support funded by assets seized in drug-related convictions.
"This long-standing partnership reflects a shared commitment to our students and the future of local law enforcement," said RLC President Lori Ragland. "We are grateful for the continued generosity of these agencies, which provides vital financial support and strengthens the path from the classroom to a career."
"The criminal justice program at Rend Lake College is greatly enhanced by the support of Jefferson County law enforcement agencies," said RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek.
RLC President Lori Ragland, RLC Foundation Assistant Director Jessica Jackanicz and RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek accepts scholarship money.
Pictured (L-R): (school personnel and police officers only) RLC Foundation Assistant Director Jessica Jackanicz, Jefferson Co Sheriff Jeff Bullard, RLC President Lori Ragland, RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek, Mt. Vernon Police Department Captain Jeremy Reichert
RLC offers an Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice, along with short-term certificates in Police and Corrections, and Private Protection. To learn more visit rlc.edu/programs.
If you are interested in establishing an annual or endowment scholarship with the RLC Foundation to help support RLC students in the criminal justice program, contact RLCF Director Amy Newell at newella@rlc.edu or visit www.rlc.edu/foundation.
