AIU Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Student Felicia Reese Awarded Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship

In June 2026, the Upsilon Xi chapter of the Alpha Sigma Lambda (ASL) Honor Society awarded ASL member and AIU student Felicia Reese with one of its $2500 scholarships.

What is the Alpha Sigma Lambda scholarship?

The scholarships are awarded to adult students in continuing higher education with the evaluation criteria based upon a personal statement and a faculty recommendation.

Reese was one of only fourteen students nationwide who were awarded scholarships. Additionally, each chapter is only allowed to submit two undergraduate scholarship applications annually.

How does the ASL scholarship change lives?

“Receiving the Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship was emotional for me because it represented so much more than financial assistance. It was confirmation that every late night, every sacrifice, and every moment I questioned whether I could keep going was worth it,” said Reese. “Like many adult learners, my journey wasn't a straight path. I spent years putting my family first. Going back to school was the first time in a long time that I chose to pour into myself, and it changed my life.”

Reese, a single mother who works full-time, is currently in AIU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program and is planning to matriculate into the school’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program later this summer.

Reese’s instructor, Dr. Jerry O. Nwonye, PMP, shared in his recommendation, “Scholarships are investments. Felicia is a high-return investment – not only in academic success, but in long-term societal impact. Supporting her is not an act of generosity alone; it is a strategic decision to back someone who will produce meaningful results in her field and community.”

Why should adults go back to school?

For those debating whether or not they should pursue their degree, Reese said, “Stop waiting for life to become perfect, because it probably never will. Take the first step anyway. One day you'll look back and realize the hardest part wasn't earning the degree. The hardest part was believing you deserved to pursue it in the first place. Believe in yourself, even on the days when that’s hard to do. The future version of you will be so grateful that you didn’t give up.”

From Reese’s time in Dr. Nwonye’s “Introduction to Philosophy” course – a challenging course for many – Dr. Nwonye saw firsthand Reese’s determination to complete her degree.

“I can state without hesitation that Felicia stands among the most resilient and purpose-driven students I have encountered,” said Dr. Nwonye. “As a future graduate, she represents the kind of individual institutions are proud to claim – one who not only completes the journey but raises the standard along the way.”

“This scholarship reminded me that perseverance matters,” Reese said. “Someone saw beyond my GPA and recognized the heart, determination, and purpose behind the work. That means more to me than I can put into words. I hope this scholarship is remembered not only as something that helped me financially, but as a reminder that it's never too late to bet on yourself.”

FAQs

Does AIU accept financial aid?

Yes, AIU has different types of financial aid available for those who qualify. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) will help you determine your federal financial aid eligibility. View AIU’s website to estimate your tuition and read our FAFSA Guide.

Does AIU offer any college grants or scholarships?

Yes! AIU offers an assortment of grants and scholarships to help make college more affordable for our students. View AIU’s grants and scholarships available!

How long does it take to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from AIU?

AIU's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is structured as a 48-month program, but your actual completion time can vary based on factors such as transfer credits accepted, the number of courses you take each term, and any breaks you choose to schedule.

Are there any prerequisites to pursue a criminal justice degree at AIU?

No, there are no prerequisites to pursue a criminal justice bachelor’s degree online with AIU. Our dedicated Graduation Team can help answer any questions that you may have and help guide you through the admissions and financial aid processes.

AIU cannot guarantee employment, salary or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. REQ2241456 07/2026