The Central Indiana Police Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Samaria Blackwell Memorial Scholarship: Chloe Reed of Carmel High School and Jenna Luken of East Central High School.
Established in memory of Samaria Blackwell, the scholarship honors a young woman whose life was defined by service, compassion, and a desire to help others. Intelligent, quick-witted, and deeply caring, Samaria dreamed of becoming a police officer and dedicated much of her time to serving others through lifeguarding, coaching youth sports, and supporting those around her. Although her life was tragically cut short in April 2021, her legacy continues through this scholarship, which supports Indiana students pursuing careers in law enforcement.
Each year, the scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to service and a passion for protecting and strengthening their communities. This year’s recipients exemplify those qualities and represent the future of law enforcement in Indiana.
Chloe Reed
A 2026 graduate of Carmel High School, Chloe Reed plans to attend Butler University and major in criminology before pursuing a career with the Carmel Police Department.
Throughout high school, Chloe has been actively involved in a wide range of activities, including competitive equestrian sports, volleyball, choir, the Help Save the Next Girl club, and the Carmel Police Cadet Program. Her dedication to service and leadership has been evident both inside and outside the classroom.
Chloe’s desire to become a police officer was inspired by the positive impact school resource officers had on her life. She shared how Officer Broadnax, who regularly joined her and a friend for lunch during elementary school, demonstrated the profound influence officers can have on young people through kindness, consistency, and connection.
She also credits Officer Williams, a school resource officer at Carmel High School, for helping her better understand the realities of a career in law enforcement. Through conversations, mentorship, ride-alongs, and participation in the Carmel Police Cadet Program, Chloe has gained valuable insight into the profession and developed an even stronger commitment to serving others.
Looking ahead, Chloe hopes to work toward specialized roles within law enforcement, including serving as a School Resource Officer or member of a SWAT team.
Jenna Luken
A 2024 graduate of East Central High School, Jenna Luken is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree while working as a part-time security officer.
During high school, Jenna balanced academics with part-time employment at LaRosa’s Pizzeria, where she worked as a cook and dishwasher. Today, she continues building experience in public safety through her role with Metro One Loss Prevention Services Group. Outside of work and school, she enjoys reading, drawing, and archery.
Jenna’s decision to pursue a career in law enforcement was shaped by a deeply personal experience. After rushing her mother to the emergency room during a medical emergency, she discovered a passion for helping others in high-pressure situations.
Following college graduation, Jenna plans to join a local police department, gain experience as an officer, and work toward becoming a K-9 handler. Long term, she hopes to continue advancing her career with either the Indiana State Police or a federal law enforcement agency.