CHICAGO, Sept. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The cost of education continues to rise. For many students entering college, this means getting a job to help pay for school. For others, higher costs mean sacrificing their dream school. Thanks to their Elks National Foundation scholarships, 500 freshmen started college this fall with fewer financial worries. Through the 2014 Most Valuable Student scholarship contest, 500 current high school seniors will be able to start college next year with less stress, too.
This year, the Elks National Foundation is investing in our nation's future by awarding $3.74 million in college scholarships. We've invested wisely. MVS scholars-all of whom demonstrate scholarship, leadership and financial need-are graduating from college at a rate of 90 percent, nearly 40 percent higher than the national average.
Through the contest, the ENF will award 20 top scholarships ranging from $20,000 to $50,000. The remaining 480 runners-up will receive $4,000 scholarships.
"I am moved not only by the Elks' extraordinary vision and generosity, but also by the strong sense of community and commitment to service," says 2013 top scholarship winner Grace Young, who is attending Harvard University this fall. "I am honored to be a part of the Elks family."
The MVS scholarship is available to all high school seniors who are United States citizens. Applicants do not need to be related to a member of the Elks. Males and females compete separately, and are judged on scholarship, leadership and financial need. Completed applications must be turned into the applicant's nearest Elks Lodge no later than December 6, 2013. The 500 national winners will be announced in late April 2014, after the top 20 finalists participate in a Leadership Weekend in Chicago.
Applications for the 2014 contest are available on the Elks National Foundation's website. For complete Most Valuable Student scholarship contest details including the application, and to learn more about how the Elks are investing in your community, visit www.elks.org/enf/scholars.
Contact: Elks National Foundation
Lydia Raabe | Communications Assistant
2750 N. Lakeview Ave. | Chicago, IL 60614-2256
773/755-4860 | LydiaR@elks.org
Helping Elks Build Stronger Communities
With nearly 826,000 members and 2,000 Lodges nationwide, Elks are providing charitable services that help build stronger communities across the United States. The Elks National Foundation, the charitable arm of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, helps Elks build stronger communities through programs that support youth, serve veterans, and meet needs in areas where Elks live and work. To learn more, visit www.elks.org/enf.
SOURCE Elks National Foundation
