By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Applications are now available for the Illinois Sheriff’s Association Scholarship Award.

There will be more than $54,000 available throughout the state for students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2016-17 academic year. Livingston County Sheriff Tony Childress will be awarding one scholarship in the amount of $500.

Applications are available at the sheriff’s department at 844 W. Lincoln Street in Pontiac or online at ilsheriff.org, where details of the scholarship and qualifications can also be found. Completed applications must be returned to the sheriff’s department no later than March 15.