NEIL G. THOMPSON SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Dear Applicant,

Because of Neil and with the help of the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, I established the Neil G. Thompson Memorial Scholarship. It will be awarded each year to a qualified high school senior who plans to pursue an academic career at a college or university of his or her choice.

Neil realized the meaning of an education as embracing three major elements - development of the mind, body, and spirit. His joy and excitement of learning were things I once envied but now understand. His physical and mental health was essential for him to withstand the pressures of today's life. And his spirit was composed of those intangible values that sustained him - integrity, conviction, loyalty, courage, selflessness, and moral values.

I could not foresee how the Memorial Fund could help in any tangible way to develop one's body or spirit. These are individuals' endeavors vital to the awakening of the whole person.

However, it is through this scholarship that the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office and I would like to show our support and best wishes for success in a future academic career.

Stimulation of the mind and the awakening of a young person's intellectual curiosity are part and parcel of a college education. One will work hard because the curriculum is demanding and the rewards are great. In the process, one will develop his own sense of true values and accomplishment and go out well able to cope with life in a complicated world. If one contributes to his fullest capacity, he will find the college experience both pleasant and rewarding and it will be an endeavor long remembered with pride.

An education is one of the few things that no one can ever take away from you. Enjoy it. Value it. Be proud of it.