During the spring 2025 Battle of the Badges flag football game last month, the Arizona Law Enforcement Outreach and Support (AZ LEOS) organization awarded scholarships to two outstanding Pumas. Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) students Natarsha Keith and Paris Thomas were among five students honored during the event, which raises funds to support injured law enforcement officers and firefighters, while also recognizing outstanding students pursuing careers in criminal justice and public service.
“This means so much to me because it helped pay for my semester,” said Keith, who is studying social work and plans to transfer to Arizona State University in January 2025. “I am in my final semester at PVCC and I couldn’t have asked for a better ending. The semester is completely paid as I was paying out of pocket, and now I have a balance of zero.”
Paris Thomas, an international student in her first semester at PVCC, also expressed gratitude for the $250 scholarship award as she begins her academic journey.
"I'm so proud that Natarsha and Paris were awarded the Battle of the Badges scholarships,” said Administration of Justice Studies and Forensic Science Program Director Bootsie Martinez. “The applicants were required to submit an essay on community policing in order to be considered and both students stood out immensely.”
“The Battle of the Badges is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of service and amplifies the potential of our students,” said Dr. Jen Miller, Student Affairs Dean, PVCC. “I’m so proud of them and our community as a whole. It’s powerful to see our students pursue their passions and give back to the community. .”
This spring marked the second time the AZ LEOS awarded the Vinny Gravelli Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of former NYPD Sergeant and 9/11 hero Vinny Gravelli. After retiring from the police department, Gravelli became a beloved college instructor, known for his deep commitment to students. His passing two years ago inspired the creation of this memorial scholarship, which ensures his legacy lives on through student success.
Mesa Community College (MCC) student Christina Denunzio earned the $500 Vinny Gravelli scholarship, while two additional MCC students also received $250 Battle of the Badges scholarship awards.
AZ LEOS was founded by Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) Police Officer Jim Hill and his wife Cindy Hill. The nonprofit is dedicated to supporting first responders and uplifting the community. In addition to scholarships, the organization sponsors annual events such as Backpacks for School Kids, Shop with a Cop, and the twice-yearly Battle of the Badges.