Contact: Lindsay Hyman
Qorvis Communications
(202) 683-3238
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Local Student Awarded Post-Graduate Scholarship of $60,000
David Mou Will Pursue a Doctorate with Scholarship Assistance

WASHINGTON, August 28, 2009 – The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans is proud to announce that David Mou of Cincinnati, Ohio, has been awarded the Dennis Washington Achievement Scholarship to assist in funding his post-graduate education. David will receive a total of $60,000 from the scholarship program.

David was eligible for this scholarship because he is a 2004 alumnus of the Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program — an award given to high school seniors who overcame adversity and life challenges while excelling in academics and contributing to their communities. The Dennis Washington Achievement Scholarship is awarded to those who seek graduate and doctoral degrees and is made possible by a $10 million grant from chairman emeritus and Horatio Alger member Dennis R. Washington, and his wife, Phyllis.

David’s family immigrated to the United States from China and faced financial challenges from the transition. At one point, David and his family returned to China because of difficulties making ends meet. David’s parents put a high emphasis on education and academic activities and David’s dedication to school eventually paid off. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in neurobiology from Harvard University, where he was awarded the Hoopes Prize – the highest commendation the university awards to an undergraduate for excellence in scholarly work and research. After completing his current research project in Paris, David will return to Harvard to pursue a medical degree with the assistance of the Dennis Washington Achievement Scholarship.

“Horatio Alger really reaches out to its scholars,” said David Mou. “They even send me emails just to see how I’m doing, because they have been in similar situations. The association truly makes you feel like family.”

“David sets an excellent example of lifelong learning and personal growth despite obstacles, and we are proud to support him in the next chapter of his academic career,” said David L. Sokol, president and CEO of the Horatio Alger Association. “The association is especially grateful for the many contributions of Dennis and Phyllis Washington and their dedication to offering students a brighter future through higher education.”

Washington, founder of the Washington Companies, has his own Horatio Alger story of inspiration and success. Overcoming childhood adversity and a bout with polio, Washington’s work ethic and unwavering motivation helped him to become vice president of the largest construction company in Montana by age 26, and he later created his own construction company, which would grow to be one of the largest in the nation.

“The greatest long-term benefit to society is realized by uplifting individuals, and providing this educational opportunity will help David realize his dreams,” stated Dennis and Phyllis Washington.

Four other individuals were awarded the scholarship in 2009: Benny L. Cooper; Joshua Steven Eddy; Ashley R. Orr; and Joel D. Stroot.

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. The association awards nearly $7 million annually in college scholarships and has given more than $65 million to deserving students since 1984. The association is a 2008-2009 Combined Federal Campaign participant; # 77062. For more information, please visit www.horatioalger.org.

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