Columbia Southern University recently awarded Georgia resident Joanne Southerland the "Hero Behind the Hero Scholarship."

The scholarship, awarded to spouses and family members of first responders and military members, was presented to Southerland for her incredible efforts against human trafficking. A first responder herself, Southerland has worked on more than 1,000 child exploitation cases at the local, state, and federal level in 13 years.

Through her recently awarded Hero Behind the Hero Scholarship, the emergency communications officer with Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services will now be able to accomplish a lifelong goal by completing her bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration at Columbia Southern University (CSU).

"I graduated from high school 25 years ago and I always wanted to go to college, but working full time and part time jobs never left enough time for me to pursue my degree," said Southerland, who is a mother of three college students. "I am now excited at the possibility of continuing my education to obtain a master's in public administration."

The CSU scholarship recognizes the sacrifices made by the family members of America's military men and women, and public safety personnel (firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs and dispatchers). Throughout the year, scholarships are awarded to the spouses or children of National Guard or active-duty military members or to the spouses or children of public safety personnel.

Southerland, whose husband Shawn is employed by the Clayton County Sheriff's Office, has worked for the past 13 years fighting human trafficking and raising awareness among first responders and the public.

"Twenty-three years ago I chose public service as my lifelong career. I always knew I would spend my life making a difference in the lives of others," she said.

To learn more about Columbia Southern University, visit www.ColumbiaSouthern.edu .