Community-focused Northeastern graduate receives Officer Burton scholarship

May 28, 2024 -- Juztice Slick is a first-generation college student pursuing her passion to work in healthcare as a paramedic.

As a scholarship recipient, she's receiving support for her academics as she pursues a nursing degree. In the future, she plans to pay it forward by contributing to the community she provides care for and to her profession.

Slick was presented the Officer Seara Burton and Brev Law Enforcement Scholarship by Reid Health during the Northeastern High School Awards Program on May 23. The scholarship is a one-time award of $1,000 given to a graduating high school senior from Wayne County who plans to pursue a degree or certificate in law enforcement or first response.

Misti Foust-Cofield, Reid Health Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer, presented the scholarship.

"Growing up in a low-income family, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and perseverance from an early age," Slick said. "Through my journey as the first in my family to attend college, I've encountered and overcome many challenges that have shaped me into the person I am today."

The Northeastern senior and recently certified EMT is on her way to accomplishing her goals. She's attending Indiana University East and committed to play women's basketball for the Red Wolves.

While in high school, Slick has been a member of the Science Club, National Honor Society, basketball, cross country, and track and field teams. Her parents are Justin Slick and Amber Shiflett.

This May, Slick earned her Basic Emergency Medical Studies Certificate (CT) from Ivy Tech Community College.

"My experiences as an EMT trainee gave me the appreciation of life, the ability to remain composed in high-stress situations, and a strong sense of responsibility for not only myself but the people around me," Slick said.

The scholarship honors Officer Burton who was shot in the line of duty on Aug. 10, 2022. Described as a warrior, a hero, and a bright star, she fought for her life for 39 days before she died on Sept. 19, 2022.

Officer Burton was a Northeastern High School graduate. She joined RPD in 2018 and went on to complete the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 2019. She later joined RPD's K-9 squad with her partner, Brev.

Reid Health worked with the Wayne County Foundation to establish the endowed scholarship in Officer Burton's name to honor her selfless sacrifice to protect the well-being, safety, and way of life of everyone in the community.