2025 SCHOLARSHIP WINNER INTRODUCTIONS
The Emerald Society’s purpose is to honor officers who have given the ultimate sacrifice by preserving their legacy and ensuring America never forgets. Serving our purpose includes supporting our current men and women in uniform and the generations to come. To that end, the Emerald Society is pleased to announce the first annual SJPES’ scholarships which are awarded to outstanding college students who are the son, daughter or grandchild of a San Jose Police Office (active or retired) or a child or grandchild of a SJPES member in good standing.
This past year the Emerald Society received numerous qualified applications and we are pleased to announce the following four scholarship recipients.
JOSHUA KATHERMAN
SJPD Officer Michael J. Katherman was killed in the Line of Duty June 14th, 2016. He left behind a wife and two children. As this is the initial class of scholarship recipients, it is only fitting that our first SJPES Scholarship is awarded to Officer Katherman’s son Joshua Katherman.
Joshua is a remarkable young man pursuing a Communications degree at Simpson University,. In addition to his studies, he volunteers with such organizations as COPS (Concerns of Police Survivors), an organization helping the surviving family members and co-workers affected by a line-of-duty death. He also volunteers with the Peace Officer Wives of California, and DreamPower Horsemanship. One of his favorite hobbies that he learned from his dad is fishing and he carries on that tradition by competing on the Simpson University Bass Fishing Team.
Joshua received a $1,000 Scholarship.
ELLA DONOHUE
Ella, the proud Daughter of SJPD Captain Stephen Donohue, is in her second year at the prestigious University of Chicago where she is seeking a dual degree in developmental psychology and neuroscience with the hopes of getting a PhD. With these degrees she intends to pursue research focused on adolescent development and how early trauma influences their neurological development.
As if getting a dual degree was not enough, Ella is a member of the UChicago Women’s Rugby team, is currently working as a Summer Resident Assistant and as a Preservation Assistant at the University of Chicago Rare Books & Special Collections Library.
Prior to heading off to college, Ella was a regular volunteer at the San Jose Police Officers’ Association where she was known for her work ethic and cheerful outlook.
Ella received a $1,000 scholarship.
SOFIA GONZALEZ
Sofia is the proud daughter of Ret SJPD Sergeant Jorge Gonzales and Los Gatos Police officer Michelle Gonzalez. Sofia is currently attending UC Santa Barbara where she is pursuing a degree in communications. At the same time, Sofia is an Army ROTC cadet, where she is working toward becoming an officer and ultimately serving as a military chaplain. Sofia envisions making a difference in her community by combining faith, leadership, and service. She says that just as law enforcement protects and guides people through difficult moments, she too wants to pursue a career that provides guidance and encouragement to those in need.
Sofia received a $1,000 scholarship.
DENNIS WARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The Dennis Ward Memorial Scholarship is presented in honor of one of the early members of the San Jose Police Emerald Society.
Dennis was a well-recognized trial lawyer by day, but we all knew Dennis as a great friend and that quintessential funny uncle with an unparalleled sense of humor and cheerful outlook that made any event better with his attendance. To pay tribute to Dennis’ generosity and positive attitude, the SJPES awards its largest scholarship of $2,000 to an outstanding student that represents Dennis’ dynamic outlook on life.
AUDREY TRAYOR
Audry is the daughter of former SJPD command staff Todd Trayor.
Audrey is pursuing a Criminal Justice degree at Boise State University. Where she maintains an impressive 3.7 GPA. For several years, Audrey has participated in the San Jose Police Cadet Program and after graduation from Boise State, she intends to attend the Police Academy to pursue a career in law enforcement here in San Jose. Audrey is a wonderful example of the quality young generation that intend to honor those who came before them by continuing to serve our community with honor and integrity. The SJPES is honored to award the Dennis Ward Memorial Scholarship to Audrey Trayor.
It is truly an honor and privilege for the SJPES to give to the future of our law enforcement community. We congratulate these amazing students and we look forward to witnessing their continued success. Also, we would like to extend a special thank you to all of our members and supporters for giving of your time and resources to make these scholarships possible.