On this one year anniversary of Officer Jesse Goldsmith's passing, the Vernon Hills Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #34 is proud to announce the winners of the first two Jesse W. Goldsmith Memorial Scholarships.  Hillsboro High School senior Kaitlyn VanOstran and Vernon Hills High School senior Neil Desai were each presented with a $1,000 scholarship to pursue a higher education.

Kaitlyn VanOstran will be attending Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville this fall and wishes to major in Business.  Kaitlyn was chosen for her academic success, her community service record and a financial need.  Kaitlyn even took the time to look up information on Jesse, and found out what kind of person he was and what some of his accomplishments were.

Neil Desai will be attending the University of Illinois - Champaign and wishes to major in Business / History.  Neil was also chosen for his academic record, his community service and extra-curricular interests, financial need and his desire to further his education.

"We are proud to award these two fine students the first ever Jesse Goldsmith Scholarships and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors," stated Sgt. Todd Williams, one of the officers who had a large role in the creation of the scholarship fund and also one of Jesse's closest friends.

Jesse is still missed each and every day by all at the Vernon Hills Police Department.  This scholarship fund was created by the friends and co-workers of Jesse W. Goldsmith at the VHPD.  "We know Jesse would be very proud to help these two students continue their education!" said Williams.