Expanding Our Recruitment Efforts

In today’s competitive job market, traditional recruitment methods such as career fairs and word-of-mouth are no longer enough. Recognizing this, WSPD has invested heavily in modern marketing techniques to reach a wider and more diverse audience. A key component of this strategy has been the department’s entry into the world of sports marketing.

By partnering with local colleges and universities, WSPD has been able to raise awareness about career opportunities and scholarships within the department. Notable partnerships include collaborations with Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem State University, Appalachian State University, and the Greensboro Coliseum. These efforts included paid advertisements, online promotions, and sponsorship of major sporting events.

Sponsoring football games at Winston-Salem State University and Wake Forest University provided unique opportunities to connect with students and the community. These events not only bolstered recruitment efforts but also strengthened internal morale and reinforced WSPD’s presence as a community-focused agency.

The Bonner-Redd-Surratt-Davis Scholarship Program

One of WSPD’s most impactful recruitment initiatives is the Bonner-Redd-Surratt-Davis Scholarship Program. Named after four former chiefs, this program is designed to support students at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) who are interested in a career in law enforcement.

Scholarship Details:

• Covers tuition, books, and fees at public HBCUs; provides comparable funding at private HBCUs
• Open to all majors
• Available to sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and pass an initial background check
• Recipients must complete a summer internship with WSPD
• Graduates commit to three years of service with WSPD

This program not only provides financial assistance but also ensures that students have a clear career pathway upon graduation.

Appalachian State University Scholarship Program

In addition to its HBCU-focused scholarships, WSPD also offers a dedicated Appalachian State University Scholarship Program for Criminal Justice majors interested in a career in law enforcement.

Program Highlights:

• Covers tuition, books, and fees
• Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and pass a mini-background check
• Recipients must complete a summer internship with WSPD
• Graduates commit to three years of service with WSPD

This initiative provides App State students with both financial support and hands-on experience, helping to develop the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

Community College (Cadet) Scholarship Program

For recent high school graduates or individuals not yet eligible for the WSPD Police Academy, the department offers a Cadet Program. This initiative allows students to gain hands-on experience while pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice.

Program Highlights:

• • • Recipients receive full tuition, books, and fees while attending college
    • Students work 20 hours per week at WSPD while completing their studies
    • Open to students enrolled full-time at: Forsyth Technical Community College, Davidson Community College, Surry Community College, Rockingham Community College, and Guilford Technical Community College
    • Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and pass a background check
    • Graduates commit to three years of service as a sworn officer with WSPD

This program is an excellent opportunity for those looking to begin their career in law enforcement while gaining valuable real-world experience.

Looking Ahead

With a commitment to innovation in recruitment and an emphasis on community engagement, WSPD continues to set itself apart. The recognition from the International Association of Chiefs of Police is a testament to the department’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to building a strong, diverse, and well-equipped police force.

For those interested in a career with WSPD, now is the time to take advantage of these incredible opportunities by visiting www.joinWSPDnow.org or talking to a recruiter at 336-403-5001. Whether through sports marketing, scholarships, or community partnerships, WSPD is making it clear: our future officers are our priority.