Horatio Alger Association Scholarship Program Celebrates 30 Years and More Than $100 Million in Scholarships

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams through higher education, marked the 30^th anniversary of its prestigious scholarship program, which has provided more than $100 million in scholarships, with the organization's annual National Scholars Conference and Horatio Alger Awards Induction Ceremonies. This multiday event was held in Washington, D.C. from April 2 through April 5.   

As a result of funding more than $100 million in scholarships since the establishment of its scholarship program in 1984, Horatio Alger Association has afforded more than 21,000 students the opportunity to pursue a college education. In 2014 alone, the Association awarded more than $9 million in need-based scholarships to 921 deserving, at-risk youth. Of these remarkable young people, 106 received the Horatio Alger National Scholarship, valued at $21,000, and were welcomed at this year's National Scholars Conference, which serves as an opportunity to formally introduce the young men and women to the Association and provide further information on the various support programs offered. These exceptional Scholars – who are recognized for their unwavering commitment to continuing their education and serving their communities despite facing hardships – interacted with Horatio Alger Members, many of whom will become their mentors, providing guidance in advance of the Scholars' first year of college. More, the multiday event was complete with a visit to the White House, the Supreme Court, Georgetown University and other notable D.C. area landmarks.

"This year's National Scholars Conference provided a unique opportunity for Horatio Alger Members and the 2014 Horatio Alger National Scholars to come together for a powerful shared experience," said David Sokol, chairman of Horatio Alger Association. "These connections allowed the students to realize the height of their potential and to witness the success that can be achieved through diligence and focus. The 2014 Horatio Alger National Scholars have faced staggering adversities but, because of their extraordinary character, they have proven anything is possible."

Coupled with the Scholar events, the Association inducted the new Member Class of 2014, which is comprised of 12 elite business, civic and philanthropic leaders. Members – like the National Scholars – have overcome significant hardships in their lives and continue to achieve greatness. In addition to their personal success, each Member is committed to giving back and offering support and encouragement to today's youth in order to help build the next generation of leaders.  More, these Members, along with Life Partners and Friends of the Association, are responsible for wholly supporting the scholarship program.

"This year, the Association honored a group of individuals who are not only successful, but are humble and selfless," said Tony Novelly, president and CEO of Horatio Alger Association."Our esteemed group of Members is committed to encouraging young men and women who have experienced similar upbringings to pursue a college degree. I am honored and grateful to be a part of such a remarkable organization and to be in the company of this exemplary group of leaders, both present and future."

To view the complete list of Horatio Alger Members selected for the Class of 2014, please visit https://www.horatioalger.org/news_pr_members2014.cfm.

To view the complete list of 2014 Horatio Alger National Scholarship recipients, please visit https://www.horatioalger.org/scholarships/2014awards.cfm?styped=NS.

About Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans:
Founded in 1947, Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc. fulfills its mission of honoring the achievements of outstanding individuals who have succeeded in spite of adversity and of encouraging young people to pursue their dreams through higher education. Horatio Alger Association supports students through annual undergraduate and graduate need-based scholarships and mentoring programs across the United States and Canada. Since 1984, the Association has awarded more than $100 million in college scholarships to deserving young people.  For more information, please visit www.horatioalger.org.

CONTACT:
Nikki Elkins
484-385-2958 (office)
[email protected]

SOURCE Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc.