Chief Don Fach Scholarship

La Mesa Police Chief Donald G. Fach passed away at the age of 80 in 2006 after a long battle with cancer. Born in Kentucky on March 30, 1925, he served as a U.S. Marine infantry sergeant in the Pacific during World War II before settling in Southern California and joining the La Mesa Police Department in 1951. Over a distinguished 35-year career, he rose through the ranks—Sergeant in 1957, Lieutenant in 1959, the department’s first Captain in 1968—and ultimately served as Chief of Police from 1973 to 1986. Chief Fach modernized the department, expanding training, implementing its first computer systems, helping form ARJIS, creating crime prevention programs, and championing benefits for law enforcement personnel. A graduate of the FBI National Academy and a leader in PORAC, he was also a founding member of the La Mesa Police Officers Association. Widely respected as a mentor and visionary leader, he was admired throughout the department and the La Mesa community. In his honor, this scholarship is limited to only the children of the La Mesa Police Officers Association who reflect Chief Fach’s same values of service, growth, and community involvement.

The Chief Don Fach scholarship is intended to give a high school senior or current college student assistance with their current or future educational needs. The child shall submit an essay to the President of the LMPOA Foundation detailing their educational goals, significant life accomplishments, organizations they are members of, community involvement and why they are the most qualified candidate. Essay’s should be received no later than June 1’st.

The award includes a $500.00 monetary scholarship, and the recipient’s name is engraved on a plaque proudly displayed at the La Mesa Police Department.

Previous recipients of the Don Fach Award:

2017- Emily Norman

2018- Alyssa Stoney

2019- Madison Wright