The Colorado Mesa University Tech Western Colorado Peace Officers Academy (WCPOA) has received a $1,500 donation from the Grand Junction Elks Lodge to the Derek Geer Memorial Scholarship Fund, helping support future law enforcement officers as they pursue training and careers in public service.
Presented on Oct. 28, 2026, the gift reflects the Grand Junction community's continued commitment to investing in student success and strengthening the future of public safety throughout western Colorado.
“We are deeply grateful to the Grand Junction Elks Lodge for their generous support of the Derek Geer Memorial Scholarship Fund. This donation not only honors Deputy Derek Geer’s sacrifice and dedication to public service but also helps remove barriers for aspiring law enforcement professionals pursuing their training,” said CMU Tech POST Academy Director Michael Diehl. “The Elks Lodge’s commitment to investing in the next generation of peace officers reflects the strong partnership between our community and those who choose a career of service and protection.”
The Western Colorado Peace Officers Academy is a Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified academy that prepares students to complete all required state examinations and earn certification as Colorado peace officers. Graduates are qualified to pursue careers with law enforcement agencies across the state, including positions as police officers, deputy sheriffs, probation and parole officers, corrections officers and wildlife officers.
Students must be at least 21 years old to enroll in the rigorous 16-week program. Upon successful completion, graduates earn 31 college credits that can be applied toward a Colorado Mesa University Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice or a Bachelor of Applied Science in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Recognized as one of Colorado's premier law enforcement academies, WCPOA was established through a partnership between the Grand Junction Police Department, Mesa County Sheriff's Office and the 21st Judicial District Attorney's Office. The academy exceeds Colorado POST requirements and utilizes scenario-based, hands-on instruction led by up to 90 instructors from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The Derek Geer Memorial Scholarship was established by Crime Stoppers of Mesa County to honor Derek Geer, a Mesa County Sheriff’s Office deputy who was killed in the line of duty.
"Investing in education is investing in the future of our community," Mesa County Sheriff Todd Rowell said. "We are grateful to the Elks Lodge for recognizing the importance of supporting those who have a future goal to serve and protect, and for helping create opportunities for the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Strong communities are built through partnerships and a shared commitment to making a difference, which is at the heart of the Derek Geer Memorial Fund."
The donation to the Derek Geer Memorial Scholarship Fund ensures more aspiring officers can access the training needed to begin rewarding careers in law enforcement while continuing a legacy of service, dedication and commitment to the western Colorado community.