Criminal Justice

Student Recognition

Four annual scholarships are offered to Criminal Justice majors. Application periods are announced each spring semester for scholarships awarded in the subsequent fall semester. The amount of each award may change from year to year depending on economic factors.

Jesse Silvano Scholarship

Jesse Silvano was an active, outgoing, family-oriented Criminal Justice major. While he planned to pursue both a master's degree and a law degree, his career was cut short by his untimely death in his senior year. Jesse always cared for others, and wanted to help those who were struggling. In Jesse's honor, his family established this annual scholarship to assist needy students. Criteria for this award include: minimum grade point average of 2.5, junior or senior criminal justice major, active member of the University community, commitment to completing the undergraduate degree. Previous winners are listed below:

Chief Robert M. and Vera Valyo Scholarship

Robert M. Valyo served as a dedicated public servant and police officer in Willistown Township for 32 years. His last 10 years he served as Chief of that Department. The Scholarship was established after his retirement, and has been continued by the Valyo family after Chief Valyo's death in 2004. Criteria for this scholarship include: minimum grade point average of 3.0; junior or senior criminal justice major; preference is given to students interested in a career in law enforcement.  Previous winners are listed below:

Jana Nestlerode Practicum Scholarship

The Jana Nestlerode Practicum Scholarship is named after one of the Criminal Justice Department's long-standing favorite professors.  Before joining the faculty at West Chester University, Jana Nestlerode was with the Delaware County District Attorney's Office.  She served as the department chair for nearly 20 years (only stepping down recently) and was also the Practicum coordinator.  This scholarship was recently started in her name to assist students who have a financial need and are enrolled in CRJ 490: Practicum for the upcoming summer.

Outstanding Student Recognition Event

Each spring semester, the College of Business and Public Management honors the outstanding students from each of the departments within the college. Students are selected by the faculty in their respective departments. An April awards ceremony is held on campus, to which students may invite family members. Each student receives a certificate honoring his/her achievements.