Sergeant Ken Joesph Award

Officer Kenneth William “Ken” Joseph, born March 22, 1934, in Edwardsville, Illinois, dedicated more than two decades of his life to serving and advocating for the wellbeing of his fellow officers. He began his career with the U.S. Forest Service in 1954, where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work and fair employee conditions, before joining the La Mesa Police Department in 1957. Ken quickly emerged as a respected leader—elected LMPOA Treasurer in 1958, unanimously elected POA President in 1961, and promoted to Sergeant that same year. He played a pivotal role in advancing statewide law enforcement progress, including supporting Assembly Bill 128, the California State Peace Officers’ Retirement Plan. Ken served as President of the San Diego County Chapter of PORAC, chaired the State Salaries and Surveys Committee, and became the first PORAC president elected to two consecutive terms. Known for his commitment to improving policing culture and officer welfare, he was unanimously elected LMPOA President again just a week before his passing on December 8, 1978, during a camping trip in the Jacumba Wilderness—one of his greatest passions. Throughout his distinguished career, he served in numerous roles, including Training Sergeant, Traffic Supervisor, Investigation Commander, and Patrol Supervisor. This scholarship honors his enduring legacy of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to the law enforcement community.

In partnership with the Grossmont College Administration of Justice Department, the La Mesa Police Officers’ Foundation proudly presents the annual “Ken Joseph Award” in memory of Sergeant Kenneth W. Joseph. This award is given to the Administration of Justice student selected by AOJ faculty who best exemplifies high academic achievement, a strong long-term commitment to the criminal justice field, and conduct that reflects the principles of the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.

The award includes a $500 scholarship, and each recipient’s name is engraved on a plaque permanently displayed at Grossmont College. 

Previous recipients of the Ken Joseph award:

2013- Chase Bell

2014- Douglas Welchon

2016- Marcus Young

2023- Fernanda Flores

2025- Sophia Meza