KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Kissimmee Police Sgt. Omar Berrio said for the first time in his almost 20-year law enforcement career he was able to apply for a lieutenant promotion because he went back to school.
Berrio said it’s all thanks to a scholarship he was awarded last year honoring two fallen Kissimmee police officers.
Here are five things you need to know about it:
- SCHOLARSHIP: Florida Technical College awarded Berrio the Sgt. Richard Sam Howard and Officer Matthew Baxter Memorial Scholarship.
The scholarship honors the two Kissimmee officers killed in the line of duty in 2017.
- BACKGROUND: It was a one-time scholarship provided by the college.
- QUALIFICATIONS: The qualifications to win the award were to be an active law enforcement officer (LEO), complete a state of Florida law enforcement academy program, submit a letter of recommendation from the Chief of Police, and submit an essay of at least 150 words detailing their contributions to the community, and how a degree would help further their career.
- EDUCATION: The degree allows Berrio to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with emphasis in homeland security at Florida Technical College.
Without a Bachelor's degree, Sgt. Berrio could not advance his career further than his current position.
- GRADUATION: It’s a full-scholarship covering the entire program. He plans to graduate December 2020.