The West Virginia Sheriffs Association (WVSA), represented by Ohio County Sheriff Patrick Butler, presented a $1,000 scholarship to West Liberty University Criminal Justice Major Justin Byers, Friday, Oct. 25.

Ohio County Sheriff Pat Butler presents scholarship to WLU Criminal Justice Senior Justin Byers.

Byers’ hometown is Bunker Hill, W.Va. and he is a senior at WLU. He also is a member of the Hilltopper Cross Country and Track and Field teams. He attended Musselman High School, Inwood, W.Va. and is the son of Pamela and Bradley Byers.

A non-profit organization made up of the sheriffs in all 55 counties in West Virginia, the WVSA is dedicated to the professionalism of the Office of Sheriff in the state. It includes thousands of honorary members across West Virginia.

WVSA also hosts the annual Youth Leadership Academy to deter risk-taking behavior patterns by introducing young people to recreation alternatives and educating them about government, law enforcement, criminal justice and leadership skills. The WVSA also is active in the legislative process at the by advocating for laws that address both national and state safety.

Annually, the WVSA accepts student applications from all 55 counties with five winners selected to receive $1,000 scholarships.

To be eligible for scholarship, students must demonstrate the highest achievement and commitment in pursuing a career in criminal justice or law enforcement. In addition to submitting an official transcript and two letters of recommendation, students must write an essay describing their professional abilities and career objectives.

One of the programs in West Liberty University’s College of Liberal Arts, the criminal justice major combines aspects of criminal justice, sociology, social work, psychology, history and law. For more information, please call Dr. Tammy McClain, interim chairwoman for the department of social and behavioral sciences at 304-336-8023 or visit the criminal justice webpage.