POPAI Vice President Lindsey Villalpando presents Brenda Matute with a plaque to commemorate her as POPAI’s 2024 Knepple Scholarship Winner.

Vice President Lindsey Villalpando presented Brenda Matute from LaPorte County with a plaque acknowledging her winning this year’s $2,500 Scholarship in memory of Donald “Charley” Knepple. She is pursuing a Masters in Science, Management and Leadership from WGU Indiana.

Judge Thorne stated it has been his distinct pleasure and privilege to have her assigned to his court. She has a high level of competency and professionalism and always brings a positive attitude.

Ashley Wright, pretrial services coordinator, stated Brenda demonstrates a genuine passion for helping others, both as a probation officer and as an Interpreter. She approaches her work with integrity and compassion.

Stephen Eyrick, CPO, stated Brenda has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism. Her bilingual skills have been particularly valuable.

In her application, Brenda stated:

This degree will assist me in learning to become a better leader. Diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important. Learning and applying the proper skills improves professional relationships with those I supervise and my coworkers.

Congratulations Brenda!