The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Betty Cockran as a 2026 CPOF scholarship recipient.
Unlike many scholarship recipients who are beginning their college journey, Betty is continuing hers while balancing the demanding responsibilities of a career in corrections and raising a family.
A Sergeant with the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Betty has proudly served the department for eight years, including the last two years in a leadership role. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice through Southern New Hampshire University, determined to continue growing both professionally and personally.
In her scholarship essay, Betty shared that corrections has shaped her in profound ways. Through years of service, she has developed a deep appreciation for professionalism, accountability, compassion, and the responsibility that comes with leading others in a challenging environment. Every day, she strives to set a positive example for the officers she supervises while continuing to strengthen her own leadership skills.
Returning to college as an adult has required remarkable determination.
As a single mother of five children, Betty balances the responsibilities of family, full-time employment, and higher education. She credits her children as her greatest motivation, explaining that she wants them to see firsthand that perseverance, hard work, and education can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
Her commitment to earning a degree extends far beyond personal achievement.
Betty’s long-term goal is to continue advancing within the Arkansas Department of Corrections, where she hopes to strengthen staff training, improve morale, and help create a safer, more supportive environment for both correctional professionals and the individuals in their custody. She believes education is one of the most powerful tools for creating meaningful, lasting change within the profession she proudly serves.
In her application, Betty expressed her gratitude for the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation and its mission of supporting correctional professionals and their families, writing that the Foundation reflects “the values of service and solidarity that define our profession.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that CPOF scholarships are not only helping the next generation—they are also investing in today’s correctional professionals who continue to grow, lead, and strengthen our profession.
We are honored to support Betty as she continues pursuing her degree and applaud her unwavering commitment to her family, her education, and the future of corrections.
Photo caption: CPOF scholarship recipient Sergeant Betty Cockran is pictured after receiving her 2026 scholarship award.