Two high school seniors earn state's largest scholarship award to Kansas State University
Monday, Feb. 10, 2014
MANHATTAN -- Kansas State University has awarded Presidential Scholarships, the largest award in the state, to two high school seniors.
The scholarship competition was Jan. 27. The university received 200 applications, and a selection committee chose seven student finalists to interview for the Presidential Scholarship. Of those interviewed, two students were awarded a $20,000 per year scholarship, an $80,000 scholarship over four years. Each Presidential finalist received a four-year renewable scholarship.
Recipients are Jack Ayres, Overland Park, Blue Valley Southwest High School; and Mary Abounabhan, Zahle, Lebanon.
The Presidential Scholarship is the largest and most selective scholarship award made by Kansas State University. It seeks to recognize students who have been truly outstanding, both academically and as student leaders, during their high school career.
"K-State takes great pride in being able to recognize outstanding students from Kansas and beyond who are making a significant impact in their high schools and communities. I am confident these students will become great K-Staters and I look forward to welcoming them to our K-State family," said Kirk Schulz, university president. "These student achievers also are important for K-State's goal of becoming a Top 50 public research university by 2025."
"The selection of these incredible students was extremely difficult and rewarding. It is through President Schulz's vision and the generous support of our alumni that this scholarship is possible. Given what these winners and finalists have already accomplished, the future of K-State and our nation will be in good hands," said Pat Bosco, university vice president for student life and dean of students.
The Presidential Scholarship is made possible by the support of Kansas State University alumni Mike and Becky Goss and Mark A. Chapman.
Presidential Scholarship finalists, all received four-year renewable scholarships, include:
Kristen Lyne, Clay Center, Minneapolis High School; and Hannah Wilborn, Hoisington, Hoisington High School; Muriel Eaton, Leawood, Blue Valley North High School; and Brianna Jackson, Overland Park, Blue Valley West High School.
From out of state: Shelby Hawkins, Independence, Mo., St. Teresa's Academy.
