The J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Scholarship

In recognition of J. Edgar Hoover’s pursuit of excellence in educational standards for the FBI, this perpetual scholarship was established by the Foundation in 1978 and is provided to a 4-year college or university in the United States, preferably with a criminal justice program. Each year, the Society’s conference host committee is privileged to select a recipient in the territory of the conference sponsoring chapter. The scholarship award is for $5,000.

Mr. Hoover was an ardent promoter of the need for well-educated and qualified personnel in all levels of law enforcement. To that extent, he developed the FBI Academy at Quantico, Virginia to provide comprehensive training for all new FBI Agents prior to their field assignment. Thereafter, Agents are required to return to the Academy periodically for refresher courses in new technology and legal matters pertaining to their duties. He pioneered professionalism in law enforcement throughout this country and in many foreign nations. To accomplish this, he created the FBI National Academy, which is often referred to as the West Point of Law Enforcement. Those attending the Academy are selected from all parts of our nation and our world allies. They receive training in all facets of law enforcement including training in legal requirements of their positions. Due in part to the excellent training these men and women receive, most of those graduating from the Academy eventually assume high ranking positions in their own local, state or even national or military law enforcement organization. It is for these reasons the Former Agents of the FBI honor Mr. Hoover by financially supporting our colleges and universities.

2025 Scholarship Recipient

Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tennessee

Cumberland University (CU) was founded in 1842 and holds a unique place in American history as one of the oldest, private, liberal art universities in the South. Now recognized as one of the fastest-growing liberal arts universities in Tennessee, CU focuses on helping students prepare to launch meaningful careers, pursue their passions, and make the most of their college experience. Located twenty-five miles east of Nashville in Lebanon, Tennessee, CU blends traditional liberal arts values with modern practical approaches through traditional undergraduate programs, graduate studies, and online offerings. With students from thirty-nine states and forty-eight countries, CU continues to evolve to meet the needs of a diverse and thriving student body.

The Criminal Justice with Law Enforcement Academy is one of its eighty programs.

2024: Texas Christian University

2023: Eastern Kentucky University