Zion-Benton, April 23 – In the second year for the EnergySolutions Foundation Scholarship Program in Zion, Illinois two students from Zion-Benton High School will each be awarded a $2,000 scholarship. A scholarship is offered to the top 10th grade student from the eligible high schools in the United States. The program is also offered in Georgia, Illinois, Idaho, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, Washington, Utah, Tennessee and Ontario Canada.
Scholarship recipients can choose what post secondary school they attend, as long as they plan to seek a degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, ecology, engineering, environmental sciences, geology, geophysics, mathematics, meteorology, or physics.
“A strong workforce in math, science, and engineering is the key to keeping America competitive during the next century. Unfortunately, we have fallen behind, but the EnergySolutions Foundation is working to help solve this problem.” said Val Christensen, President & CEO of EnergySolutions.
The selection committee has representatives from all areas participating in the program. Selection committee members include professionals in science, math, engineering, and from academia. They evaluate each application for academic achievement, community involvement, and career goals. The selection committee includes two local teachers: Melanie Mudarth and Kevin Smyk.
The goal of the scholarship program is to help create the next generation of mathematicians, scientists, and engineers for America’s future. “This is an excellent opportunity for the Foundation to act locally and get results on a global scale,” said John Christian, President Commercial Services, EnergySolutions. “We recognize the need our nation has for a well trained workforce and this is a great vehicle to promote that,” said Christian. Scholarship recipients will be honored at their school May 4th.
Additional information on the EnergySolutions Foundation Scholarship Program is available at www.energysolutionsfoundation.org.
Zion-Benton High School Scholarship 2009-2010 Recipients
Michelle Pacheco Zion-Benton Township High School
Michelle knows that her interest in studying biology is essential to her goal of becoming a research scientist. She wants to apply her abilities and expertise toward new concepts and experiments which she hopes will lead to new discoveries in science. Her accelerated biology teacher recommended Michelle because, “she fully understand the concept of experimental design and extends labs when she has a special interest. She is well aware of how to approach experimental write-ups and is a good instructor to others.”
Madison Thompson Zion-Benton Township High School
Madison wants to study biochemical/mechanical engineering and hopes to impact the field of engineering by creating new prostheses for individuals with disabilities. It is her desire to improve people’s lives and with their struggles to function in every day life. Her Accelerated chemistry teacher said, “Madison is a hard worker who looks forward to the challenges set before her in class. She is not afraid to ask questions and seek extra help if needed. I believe that Madison has the motivation and dedication to excel in the engineering field”
