BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — A full circle moment for a standout senior.
Denim Simmons was awarded BHS’ prestigious Kevin Wiegel Memorial Scholarship by Bakersfield Police Department Chief Brent Stratton.
To figure out the kind of young man he’s become, just ask those who have watched him grow up.
“In seeing Denim and recognizing his name, it made me just think of the last 10 years or so of knowing him and watching him grow into the young man that he’s become and our entire department is very proud of him,” Stratton said.
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“Denim is an electric kid. He comes in a room and lights it right up. He’s smart. He’s intelligent. He’s very kind, thoughtful. He has a heart of service and he’s always had that,” BPD Lieutenant David Brooks said.
The honor represents the end of a long road filled with adversity and triumph.
“Throughout high school, I’ve been through a lot. With my mom having kidney failure and having to help her with that. Having to be a football team captain to my football team, and keeping a high GPA and maintaining it,” Simmons said.
His enthusiasm for law enforcement earned him the Police Activities League kid of the year in 2019.
That award reinforced his love for keeping his community safe.
“He really cares about his community. He really cares for people, and to see him in his community write tickets and patrol the area, and even ask officers if they need his assistance while they are out on calls. It’s amazing to see how much he cares and how much he loves,” Brooks said.
“Since a little youngin’ I always wanted to be a police officer. It means a lot to me to receive this scholarship. I’m very happy and I’m very proud of myself, I’ve worked hard,” Simmons said.
As for what his future holds?
“I think the sky is the limit. He definitely has a great personality. He’s got a lot going for himself,” Brooks said.
“It’s just our hope that this scholarship in some small way is going to be able to help further his college education and that he can go on to do the great things that I know he’s capable of doing,” Stratton said.
A graduating driller with a heart for service and a commitment to excellence in whatever he sets his mind to.
Denim will continue his education as an agricultural major at Bakersfield College where he will also live out his dream of playing college football.
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