INIA Scholarship Program

INIA Scholarship 2025

On April 30, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois, the Michael Garbo Foundation had the privilege of participating in the 34th Annual INIA Drug/Terrorist Interdiction Training Conference. At this event, we proudly presented the Michael Garbo Memorial INIA Scholarship—a meaningful partnership that reflects our shared commitment to supporting students in their pursuit of higher education. Michael Garbo was more than a respected leader in law enforcement—he was a devoted husband, father, colleague, and friend. Throughout his 30-year career, Michael served with passion, integrity, and a profound sense of purpose. To us—and to many who knew him—Michael remains a hero. His legacy continues to inspire, and through this scholarship, we honor his memory by uplifting the next generation of leaders.

The values of the Michael Garbo Foundation and INIA align closely: to encourage academic achievement and support the personal growth of promising students. Each year, the Michael Garbo Foundation, alongside the INIA board, has the privilege of reviewing an inspiring group of applicants. Selecting recipients is never easy. The applications we receive reflect determination, resilience, and excellence. But each year, a few individuals stand out—not only for what they've achieved but for who they are and the path they're forging. For the Garbo family, presenting these scholarships is more than a moment of recognition—it's a way to keep Michael's spirit alive and to connect with families and students who are striving toward their dreams. They often receive heartfelt messages from past recipients and their families. One parent shared how her daughter made the Dean's List and credited this scholarship as a source of motivation and pride. Another student returned home from college and immediately displayed his scholarship in his room, a daily reminder of the honor he carries with him. These moments mean the world to the Garbo family. They remind us and reaffirm why this scholarship exists. INIA, Alexis, and Vida Garbo are incredibly proud of each recipient and grateful for the opportunity to support their journey. Together with INIA, we are honored to introduce the recipients of the 2025 Michael Garbo Memorial INIA Scholarship—four outstanding individuals who exemplify excellence, resilience, and the spirit of service this award was created to recognize.

Ava Thompson

Ava Thompson is an accomplished student shaped by her father’s career in law enforcement as a Narcotics and Currency K-9 Handler for the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Inspired by his dedication to family and community, Ava has developed a strong commitment to justice, perseverance, and service. With a 4.89 GPA and a position on Liberty University's Division I Lacrosse team, she excels both in the classroom and as an athlete. Ava plans to major in Criminal Justice and pursue a career as a prosecuting attorney, with the goal of giving back to the community that her father served. Her passion, discipline, and determination make her a strong candidate for the Michael Garbo Scholarship.

Ezekial Van Heyst

Ezekial Van Heyst, a senior at Tampa Preparatory School, is driven by a deep respect for justice, values shaped by his father’s 25-year career in law enforcement. Though he once considered following directly in his father’s footsteps, Ezekial discovered his true calling with the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC), where he hopes to protect endangered species like the Florida Panther and manatees. An avid fisherman, kayaker, and mountain biker, Ezekial will attend Covenant College to study law enforcement-related fields and play soccer. Ezekiel’s ultimate goal is to join the FWC to make a lasting impact on wildlife conservation. His dedication to conservation and public service exemplify the mission of this scholarship.

Jacob Schmulbach

From building Lego structures as a child to coaching baseball after an injury sidelined his playing career, Jacob Schmulbach has always been drawn to creating, leading, and mentoring. At 16, he began to lose his hearing—an unexpected challenge that strengthened his resilience and perspective. Coaching inspired him to pursue a degree in construction engineering, where he can bring ideas to life and make a tangible difference. Jacob is committed to continuous learning, earning certifications, and honoring the values instilled in him by his parents. He is deeply grateful for this opportunity and for all those who have supported his journey. Jacob’s perseverance in the face of adversity, his leadership, and integrity reflect the core values of the Michael Garbo Memorial INIA Scholarship.

Taylor Watson

Taylor Watson is pursuing a degree in elementary education, intending to become a first-grade teacher at the school she once attended, or another in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. Passionate about shaping young minds, Taylor aims to make a lasting impact through education and hopes to continue her studies with a Master’s in Education. She also brings her creativity into the classroom through graphic design and plans to coach high school track and field to inspire future athletes, just as her coaches inspired her.

The Michael Garbo Foundation is not part of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Neither the DOJ nor the DEA approves, endorses, or authorizes the Michael Garbo Foundation, its materials, or its fundraising efforts.