The Shawn D. Wiersma Justice Memorial Scholarship benefits an entering senior student with a major in criminal justice who plans to enter the police or legal professions.

This scholarship memorialize Shawn Wiersma who died in a tragic auto crash on September 6, 2004. Shawn is remembered for his service to the Holland Police Department through the City Attorney’s Office, a client of the Cunningham Dalman P.C. law office where he practiced. He developed many friendships within the police department and was highly respected for his ethics and character by clients and colleagues alike. In addition, Shawn is remembered for his service as an instructor in the Grand Valley State University School of Criminal Justice. He was highly respected by students and colleagues and loved his teaching experience which was reflected in his close ties with his students. His commitment to education was unmatched.

Scholarship Recipients:  

• 2025/26 - Marisa Hillard
• 2024/25 - Logan Clack
• 2023/24 - Christina Owens 
• 2022/23 - Mallory Goff | Anthony Cradlebaugh
• 2021/22 - Nicholas DeNooy | Jessica Bajis
• 2020/21 - Hallie Ruegsegger
• 2019/20 - Allyssa J. Zamarripa
• 2018/19 -  Jessica R. Reece
• 2017/18 -  Ashley K. Gesselman | Jodi L. Engel
• 2016/17 -  Gabriela J. Diaz |  Michaela G. Merillat | Ross H. Barrett
• 2015/16 -  Kailee N. Schuett | Kaylee M. McWilliams
• 2014/15 -  Logan A. O'Neal | Catherine R. Irwin
• 2013/14 - Stefan C. Bero | Asia L. Taylor | Kaylynn M. Watkins | Costas Ciungan
• 2012/13 - Bradley S. Bennett | Sam J. Fearnow | Michael R. Hecko
• 2011/12 - Larry D. Harris | Ryan L. Dannenberg | Megan M. Kennedy | Daniel L. Saldana
• 2010/11 - Derrick A. Smith
• 2009/10 - Jeffrey J. Hoogewind | Benjamin D. Walkington