Horatio Alger Association Opens Scholarship Enrollment for High School Students in Every State

Association funds more than $7 million in scholarships each year for scholars who overcame adversity

WASHINGTON, Aug. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In an economic climate where college tuition is unaffordable for many of our nation's teens, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc. opened the enrollment period for its 2011 national scholarship and state scholarship programs.

The scholarship programs award more than $7 million in need-based college scholarships each year. High school seniors from across the country may apply now through October 30, 2010 for the financial assistance that is vital to many who seek higher education, and ultimately, a brighter future. An online application can be found at www.horatioalger.org/scholarships

"We award students who have exemplified the Horatio Alger ideals by using their challenges in life as a motivator for success," said Tony Novelly, president and CEO of the Horatio Alger Association. "Our scholarship program is a critical support system for thousands of struggling young people, and we are proud to help students who have excelled in academics, contributed to their communities and overcome adversities attend college."

Public and private universities continue to raise tuition rates due to budget crises. Simultaneously, college endowments, which often fund scholarships, remain difficult to obtain. As a result, many colleges have fewer scholarship dollars to grant to incoming freshmen. The Horatio Alger Association plays a crucial role in helping scholars who deserve a higher education overcome this financial challenge, just as they have overcome challenges in their young lives.

As one of the largest privately-funded, need-based financial aid programs in the country, Horatio Alger scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity and hardships, while demonstrating strength of character, strong academics, commitment to pursue a college education and desire to contribute to society.  

Students from all 50 states, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, are encouraged to apply for the Horatio Alger National Scholarship program. The association will award $20,000 scholarships to approximately 100 students in 2011. Those applicants who do not qualify for the national award will be considered for the Horatio Alger State Scholarship programs, which are sponsored by Horatio Alger members and friends of the association in select states, and each state program provides financial assistance ranging from $2,500 to $10,500.

Horatio Alger scholars are provided with numerous resources to ensure a successful college career. Each student receives:

• Financial aid guidance to assist in the selection of, and preparation for, college.
• Access to the association's web site, where students can create online profiles, search for fellow scholars, update their personal information, submit disbursement requests and direct questions to the association.
• Access to a toll-free information line, to speak to program coordinators for assistance with questions about their scholarships and other educational programs.

About the Horatio Alger Association:

Founded in 1947, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans continues to fulfill its mission of honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals in our society who have succeeded in spite of adversity and of encouraging young people to pursue their dreams through higher education. The Horatio Alger Association offers three annual scholarship programs: the National Scholarship Program, state scholarship programs, and graduate grants. Since 1984, the association has awarded over $70 million in college scholarships to deserving young people. The association is a Combined Federal Campaign participant; # 77062. For more information, please visit www.horatioalger.org

SOURCE Horatio Alger Association