Criminal justice, public safety leadership student receives Metropol continuing education scholarship – Mercer University
ATLANTA, Ga. — Mercer University criminal justice and public safety leadership graduate student Ben Olson was recently awarded the 2025 Atlanta Metropol Continuing Education Scholarship to help cover tuition and expenses for high school, undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety.
Olson is currently pursuing his master’s degree in criminal justice and public safety leadership in Mercer’s College of Professional Advancement. He will graduate in December and intends to begin a career in law enforcement. He describes himself as a “dedicated, driven, aspiring law enforcement professional with the goal of serving at the state, local or federal level.”
“I was honored to receive the 2025 Atlanta Metropol Continued Education Scholarship, which reflects my commitment to professional growth and service,” Olson said.
A future double-bear, Olson received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Mercer, where he was the starting catcher and team captain for the Mercer Bears baseball team. He recently completed an internship with the Cobb County Police Department, where he observed firsthand patrol operations, community policing and real-time problem-solving.
“My academic background, athletic discipline and passion for justice have prepared me to enter the law enforcement field with integrity, leadership and a dedication to serving my community,” he said.
As a member of Metropol since 2013, Dr. Stephen E. Ruegger, associate professor of leadership studies, nominated Olson for the award.
“Ben’s commitment to excellence and his passion for the field of criminal justice are truly commendable,” said Dr. Ruegger. “Winning the Metropol Scholarship is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work in the classroom, and I’m proud to see his talents and dedication honored in this way.”
Olsen is the fourth Mercer student from the College of Professional Advancement to receive a Metropol Scholarship in the last 10 years.
The College of Professional Advancement’s new graduate criminal justice pathway within the fully online M.S. in organizational leadership degree offers students an advanced curriculum focused on ethical leadership, conflict resolution and contemporary challenges in criminal justice. With five start dates throughout the year, the flexible program equips emerging leaders, like Ben Olson, with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change in public safety organizations.
About Atlanta Metropol
Atlanta Metropol, Inc. brings together the executive leadership of Metropolitan Atlanta’s top corporations and federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to develop a public/private sector partnership. The partnership provides a collaborative environment that promotes shared resources and continuing education focused on keeping Metropolitan Atlanta safe and secure.
