The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Matthew Gilbert as a 2026 CPOF scholarship recipient.

Matthew, the son of Eric Gilbert of Centennial Correctional Facility in Colorado, is currently attending Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, where he is pursuing a degree in Kinesiology with the long-term goal of becoming a physical therapist. His journey reflects a strong commitment to service, perseverance, and the desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Raised in Cañon City, Colorado, Matthew grew up in a household that emphasized responsibility, family, and service. From an early age, he took pride in being someone others could count on—whether serving on fifth-grade safety patrol, helping maintain his grandparents’ property, or looking out for his younger brother. That sense of accountability became a defining part of who he is and has shaped the way he approaches academics, athletics, and his future career.

In his scholarship essay, Matthew shared that his work ethic has often been shaped by the mindset of an offensive lineman: work hard, support the team, and find fulfillment in the success of the group rather than individual recognition. That mindset carried into the classroom, where he maintained high academic standards and served as a Link Leader, mentoring incoming freshmen.

Matthew’s path toward physical therapy was solidified after a serious knee injury during his sophomore year of high school sidelined him from football. Though he could no longer play, he never stopped showing up—remaining involved with his team and continuing to lead from the sidelines throughout his recovery. During that time, he worked closely with a physical therapist who helped him regain strength and mobility, and the experience left a lasting impact. Seeing firsthand how physical therapy could restore movement, confidence, and quality of life inspired Matthew to pursue the profession himself.

Athletics have played a major role in his development. Matthew wrestled for five seasons and found his greatest passion in football, where he learned discipline, resilience, teamwork, and leadership. Despite being told he was “too small” for his position, his leadership and determination helped open the door to continue his football career at Friends University. There, he earned both a football scholarship and the university’s $12,000 Presidential Scholarship, awarded for academic achievement.

Now a freshman in college, Matthew continues to balance the demands of athletics and academics while working toward his future in healthcare. He has maintained the grades required to keep his academic scholarship and also works as a lifeguard during the off-season. His goal is clear: to graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to serve future patients with the same dedication he brings to the football field.

This scholarship will help ease the financial burden of tuition, fees, and on-campus living expenses, allowing Matthew to remain focused on his education, his team, and the future he is working so hard to build.

We are honored to support Matthew as he continues his studies and pursues a career dedicated to helping others regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

Photo caption: CPOF scholarship recipient Matthew Gilbert is pictured after receiving his 2026 scholarship award.