Foundation offers award to assist prosecutors with loan repayment

The St. Louis Community Foundation is accepting applications for the Missouri Prosecuting Attorney Outstanding Service Award, which will provide up to $50,000 for federal and institutional educational loan repayment to an eligible assistant prosecuting attorney in Missouri.

Established in 2018 by a former prosecuting attorney, the award recognizes the achievements of an individual who has demonstrated leadership through outstanding public service and criminal prosecution who is committed to a career in public service.

“The cost of higher education has reached an alarming level, making it almost impossible for someone to pursue a career in public service,” said the foundation donor. “This award is intended to not only recognize dedication to public service, but to also allow those who wish to remain prosecutors do so without the burden of crushing student debt.”

The award will be available to any full-time, practicing federal or state assistant prosecuting attorney, assistant circuit attorney or assistant attorney general engaged in prosecution. Applicants must have at least three years of experience as a prosecutor. Recipients must maintain continuous licensing and be employed full-time to prosecute criminal or juvenile delinquency cases. Prosecuting attorneys currently in default on their student loans will not be considered. Elected prosecutors are not eligible.

All applicants will be evaluated on the strength of an essay, letters of reference, character and integrity, quality of work, leadership, ethical standards, a commitment to public service, contributions to community and the legal profession, and the protection of victim’s rights, as well as financial need in the form of outstanding student loan debt.

Application materials are due by midnight on Jan. 31 to [email protected]. For complete eligibility requirements and application materials, please visit stlgives.org/community-impact/mpaosa/.