Joshua Royle Memorial Scholarship

Joshua (Josh) Royle always loved and nurtured animals. As a young boy he exhibited a love for animals and insects. He owned lizards, frogs and bugs. A gentle soul, he would gently guide bugs out of the house, causing his beloved mother to give him the nickname “Bugz”.

Josh had two trained service dogs, Raja, an Australian Shepherd mix and Diesel, a St. Bernard who were his helpers and companions.

As a young adult, Josh attended National K-9 Academy in Columbus, OH. There, he developed his formal education learning about dog obedience training, behavior modification/counseling, puppy development, utility/confidence training, customer relations with dog owners, and insight into establishing a successful small business practice.

After being certified at National K-9, he established his own business and worked with owners to train service dogs for people in need. His service dog training program focused on providing dogs for individuals who were handicapped or autistic. Highly sought after for his dedication to his clients and their dogs, he was loved and respected by his clients.

In 2024, his family decided to carry on his memory through creating a scholarship to allow young people who lacked finances, but not passion to become a canine professional, to have an opportunity to attend the IACP Annual Educational Conference.

Annual Educational Conferences are an integral part of the IACP mission to educate, support and develop professionals in the canine industry. This scholarship allows those who may not have resources to access the conference an equal opportunity to attend.

Recipients are highlighted during our annual conference closing night gala.

The IACP as well as the friends and family of Josh Royle, encourage all those who qualify to participate in this memorial scholarship.

Scholarship Rules

Applicants must complete an application form. (link below)

  1. Previous recipients may not re-apply.
  2. Applicants must be between 18 – 26 years of age. 
  3. Applicants must write a short (500-800 word) application detailing:
    a. Applicant’s goals and passion to become a canine professional.
    b. Detailed information as to why the applicant is seeking IACP educational opportunities.  
  4. Up to One recipient will be selected annually from the applications submitted.
    IACP membership is not required to apply for this scholarship. 
  5. This award may not be transferred.
  6. This award has no cash value. 

One scholarship recipient annually will be awarded

  1. One (1) admission to in person attendance at the IACP Annual Educational Conference, including Gala.
  2. In person attendance includes all the benefits and restrictions of a paid ticket holder.   
  3. Attendance at one of our Pre-Conference Events.
  4. Breakfast & lunch while at conference.
  5. Lodging at the Hyatt Regency, Savannah.
  6. Up to $800 stipend for travel to and from the conference venue.

Important 2025 Dates
Application submissions due: March 15th, 2025
Recipients will be notified on or before: April 1, 2025
Results will be announced to membership on or before:  April 15, 2025