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

Sarah, the daughter of Michael Snelson, Assistant Warden with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, will attend Blinn Community College this fall as she begins preparing for a career as a Pediatric Physical Therapist Assistant.

For Sarah, helping children has never simply been a career goal—it has been a lifelong calling.

Growing up in College Station, Texas, Sarah was raised in a family deeply involved in their church after her parents accepted positions as children’s pastors. From an early age, she learned the importance of serving others and building meaningful relationships with children. Those experiences laid the foundation for a passion that has continued to grow throughout her life.

After completing children’s ministry herself, Sarah knew she wanted to become a leader for the next generation. When the COVID-19 pandemic created a shortage of volunteers, Sarah stepped up alongside her family to help continue the ministry. As the years passed, she became a leader for children from newborn through five years old, spending countless Sundays teaching, encouraging, and investing in young lives.

A second passion emerged during high school when Sarah joined her school’s athletic training program.

Working alongside athletic trainers introduced her to injury care, rehabilitation, first aid, and the science of helping people recover. More importantly, it showed her how much she enjoyed supporting others through difficult moments. Throughout the program, she developed valuable skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership while balancing academics with extracurricular commitments.

As Sarah reflected on both experiences, she realized they pointed toward the same purpose.

She discovered a career as a Pediatric Physical Therapist Assistant, where she can combine her love for helping children with her passion for healthcare. Her goal is to help young patients improve their strength, mobility, coordination, and confidence while creating an environment where children feel encouraged and excited to grow—not fearful of therapy.

In her scholarship essay, Sarah credits her family for helping shape the person she is today. She also recognizes the sacrifices her parents have made to provide opportunities for their family, understanding the importance of financial responsibility and the value of working hard toward her goals.

This scholarship will help ease the financial burden of college as Sarah pursues the education needed to begin a career dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families.

We are honored to support Sarah as she begins this exciting new chapter and look forward to seeing the impact she will make through a lifetime of service, compassion, and care.

Photo caption: CPOF scholarship recipient Sarah Snelson is pictured with Texas Field Representative Cathy Stokes, who presented her 2026 scholarship award.