The Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute announced the awarding of 68 scholarships to Virginia students, including one for Kettle Run High School graduate Isabella Jontz. This is the second $1,000 scholarship Isabella has been awarded from the VSI to help her pursue a career in criminal justice.
Fauquier County Sheriff Bob Mosier, who is on the VSI board of directors, presented her with the award and said, “The VSI scholarship program is quite simply an investment in the future of professional policing.”
Isabella graduated from Kettle Run High School in 2019 and is attending Longwood University in Farmville, where she is pursuing a double major in psychology and criminology. She wants to eventually earn a PhD in forensic psychology. A resident of The Plains, Isabella is hoping to work as a forensic psychologist for the FBI.
“I am very interested in why people act certain ways and why some turn to criminal activity,” she told Channel One. “I want to be a part of a team that makes a difference in our communities to help make them safer. I’ve always been very interested in the psychology of a criminal and how I can help make a difference by eliminating crime.”
She said, “I am extremely grateful to be able to receive this scholarship again and excited to use it to help me with my college career. I am extremely grateful to have the support of VSI behind me and the support of the Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office.” As soon as COVID restrictions are eased, Isabella should begin a summer internship with the Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office.
VSI is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization established by Virginia Sheriffs. It provides training and education to members of the institute, including sheriffs and deputy sheriffs across Virginia on issues relating to management, crime prevention and other areas of public safety. The scholarships support students pursuing a college degree in criminal justice while attending a Virginia college or university.