Contact: Lindsay Hyman
Qorvis Communications
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Five Students Selected for Dennis Washington Achievement Scholarship
Dennis and Phyllis Washington Provide Funding for Students’ Post-Graduate Studies

WASHINGTON, August 26, 2009 – The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans is proud to announce that five individuals have been awarded the Dennis Washington Achievement Scholarship to assist in funding their post-graduate education.

Ashley R. Orr, Benny L. Cooper, Joshua Steven Eddy, David Mou and Joel D. Stroot will receive scholarships ranging from $20,000 to $60,000, all of them made possible by a $10 million grant from chairman emeritus and Horatio Alger member, Dennis R. Washington, and his wife, Phyllis.

“These students set an excellent example of lifelong learning and personal growth despite overcoming personal obstacles and we are proud to support them in the next chapter of their academic careers,” 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, later creating 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 these fine young people with this educational opportunity will help them realize their dreams,” stated Dennis and Phyllis Washington.

Recipients of the Scholarship were eligible for this award as alumni 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 are seeking graduate and doctoral degrees.

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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