The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Sarah Steenbergen as a 2026 CPOF scholarship recipient.
Sarah, the daughter of Kevin Steenbergen of the Colorado Department of Corrections, is currently attending Colorado State University Pueblo, where she is pursuing a degree in nursing. Driven by compassion and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, Sarah has found a career path that reflects both her heart for service and her determination to help people during life’s most challenging moments.
After graduating from Pueblo West High School in 2025, Sarah began her college journey knowing she wanted a profession centered on helping others. While she explored different academic paths early on, that process ultimately led her to nursing, a career she realized perfectly combined her interests, her strengths, and her passion for caring for people. Inspired by several family members who work in healthcare, she discovered that nursing was more than just a career choice; it was where she truly belonged.
In her scholarship essay, Sarah shared that she hopes to become the kind of nurse patients can trust—not only for medical care but also for comfort, compassion, and reassurance during some of the most difficult days of their lives. She understands that nurses often meet people during moments of fear, uncertainty, and pain, and she is committed to being a steady, caring presence for those who need it most.
Throughout high school and into college, Sarah has balanced the responsibilities of school while maintaining employment. Managing work alongside a demanding academic schedule has strengthened her time management skills, taught her financial responsibility, and reinforced the value of perseverance. Paying many of her own daily expenses while working toward a college degree has motivated her to stay focused on her long-term goals and appreciate every opportunity that brings her closer to becoming a nurse.
Like many college students, Sarah has faced the challenge of balancing coursework, employment, family, and friendships. While it hasn’t always been easy, she credits those experiences with helping her become more organized, independent, and resilient. She continues to challenge herself to improve her study habits, stay disciplined, and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.
Sarah describes herself as hardworking, caring, and motivated, qualities that have guided her through each step of her educational journey and will continue to serve her well as she enters the nursing profession.
This scholarship will help relieve some of the financial burden of college, allowing Sarah to focus more fully on her education and the career she is so passionate about pursuing.
We are honored to support Sarah as she continues her journey toward becoming a nurse and look forward to seeing the compassion and dedication she will bring to every patient she serves.
Photo caption: CPOF scholarship recipient Sarah Steenbergen, with her father Kevin, and Senior Field Representative Guy Edmonds, is pictured after receiving her 2026 scholarship award.