KU News Release

First 40 Robert J. Dole Public Service Scholarship recipients announced

LAWRENCE -- The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas has announced the first 40 recipients of Senator Robert J. Dole Public Service Scholarships. The program recognizes students who have demonstrated involvement in volunteer community and public service.

"This is consistent with the mission Sen. Dole has assigned to this institute: encourage young people to get involved in politics, their government and their community," said Bill Lacy, institute director.

Drawing upon the spirit and experience of Dole's career, the scholarship encourages study and involvement in public service. The goal is to improve the public service capacities of public officials and help students understand the challenges and rewards of public life. The scholarship is funded by a congressional grant.

Eligible recipients had to be a 2005 graduate of an accredited public or private high school in Kansas; have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale; demonstrate significant involvement in volunteer community service projects or public service activities; and plan to enroll no later than fall 2005 in a full-time undergraduate course of study at KU, Kansas State University, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University or Washburn University.

Recipients receive a $1,000 annual award. Up to 40 awards will be granted each year and distributed equally among Kansas' four congressional districts, provided there are qualified applicants.

" Sen. Dole wanted to make sure all Kansas students had these opportunities," Lacy said. "By distributing the scholarships by congressional district we are making sure this happens."

Awards may be renewed for up to three additional years or until a bachelor's degree is earned, whichever occurs first. Renewal is contingent on maintaining a 3.0 GPA in a full-time course of study.

This scholarship program is administered by Scholarship Management Services, a department of Scholarship America, a national nonprofit educational support and student aid service organization that seeks to involve and assist the private sector in expanding educational opportunities and encouraging educational achievement. Awards are granted without regard to race, color, creed, religion, gender, disability or national origin.

" This is one more way to reward and encourage civic engagement," Lacy said. "We hope the Dole scholars will take an even more active role during their college years."

The scholars are listed below by home county, hometown, name, parents' names, congressional district and representative/senator, university and major.

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