Ascension Veterans Association accepting scholarship applications
The Ascension Veterans Association (AVA) has opened enrollment for its second annual AVA scholarship program.
This scholarship program is designed for Parish residents who show exemplary civic service and patriotic ideology, said Ascension Veterans Association Scholarship Chairman Tanya Whitney.
Those eligible to apply are dependent children, grandchildren or spouse of an honorably discharged veteran, as well as current military personnel. Stepchildren or step grandchildren of an honorably discharged veteran or military service personnel are also eligible for the scholarship.
Applications are reviewed by a panel that awards points based on criteria such as GPA and community service, among other things, Whitney said.
This year a new category was created for honorably discharged veterans. Candidates who are interested in applying must be residents of Ascension parish or will be/are a graduate of an Ascension Parish high school, either public or private. Candidates must have/had at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average based on a 4.0 scale.
“We didn’t put a age limit because we want to try to reach out to as many as possible,” Whitney said. “This year we are hoping that we can do at least one veteran.”
Three scholarships were awarded last year to two graduating seniors from Dutchtown High, Sarah Sonier and Christian Logarbo, as well as River Parishes Community College student, Rebekah Whitney.
Those wanting to apply for the scholarship must do so no later than Feb. 5, 2016. A minimum of four scholarships of $1000 each are expected to be awarded for the 2016-17 academic year, subject to number of qualifying participants. Previous applicants who are eligible may reapply.
Recipients of the AVA Scholarship will be honored and presented a certification at the annual AVA Musical Tribute for Our Troops on March 4, 2016. More information can be found by contacting Tanya Whitney at AVAscholarship@gmail.com or (225) 612-0805 or (225) 656-2124.