The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Deegan Shebester-Bodell as a 2026 CPOF scholarship recipient.
Deegan, the son of Belle Bodell of the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility in Michigan, is continuing his education at The University of Olivet, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Coaching.
Already a junior, Deegan has distinguished himself as both a scholar and a leader, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics, campus leadership, internships, and community service.
As a member of the university’s cross country and track & field teams, specializing in long-distance events, Deegan understands the discipline and perseverance required to succeed. Those same qualities are reflected throughout his academic career.
His involvement on campus is nothing short of remarkable. Deegan serves in the Criminal Justice Honors Society, Student Athletic Advisory Committee, Global Citizen Honors Program, President’s Leadership Institute, Phi Alpha Pi Literary Society, and on the leadership team for the university’s track and field program. He has also held executive board positions in multiple student organizations while helping organize community service opportunities for fellow criminal justice students.
One of Deegan’s most unique educational experiences has been serving in the university’s prestigious Cold Case Investigation Class, led by Professor Phil Reed. Working alongside fellow criminal justice students, Deegan analyzes unsolved cases from the Battle Creek Police Department, collaborating directly with investigators to identify new leads and recommend evidence, including DNA, for additional testing.
Beyond the classroom, Deegan is gaining real-world experience through an internship with the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, helping prepare him for his future career in law enforcement.
His passion for public service stems from the community that helped shape him.
Growing up in the small town of Carson City, Michigan, Deegan developed a desire to give back to the people who invested in him. His goal is to serve as a law enforcement officer, protecting others while making a positive and lasting impact in whatever community he ultimately calls home.
Following the presentation of his scholarship, Deegan shared a heartfelt message with the Foundation:
“This scholarship will help continue my passion of pursuing a career in law enforcement… and help me make my promise to give back to the community that has given so much to me in the first place and make it safer.”
Those words perfectly capture the spirit of service that defines both Deegan and the correctional families CPOF is proud to support.
We congratulate Deegan on this well-deserved scholarship and look forward to seeing the leadership, integrity, and dedication he will bring to the law enforcement profession.
Photo caption: CPOF scholarship recipient Deegan Shebester-Bodell is pictured after receiving his 2026 scholarship award.