August 03, 2004
David Macak wins presidential scholarship
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- David Macak, a graduate of Goreville High School, is the recipient of a presidential scholarship from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Macak is one of 19 incoming freshmen who make up the third group of presidential scholars. SIU President James E. Walker created the Presidential Scholars Program three years ago, saying it "rewards Illinois high school students who have worked hard in the classroom and who have been actively involved in their school and community."The award provides tuition, fees, and room and board for four years. For the upcoming school year, that's a total of $11,540 for Macak, son of Donald Macak and Darlene Macak of Goreville.
Minimum eligibility requirements are an ACT (American College Test) composite score of 29, a 3.75 grade point average on a 4.0 (perfect) scale, leadership qualities and Illinois residency.
This year's scholars recorded an average ACT score of 32.89; 36 is the maximum score. All the recipients ranked in the top 2 percent of their high school graduating class.
Macak was an Illinois State Scholar and valedictorian of his high school class. His activities included cheerleading, golf, Scholar Bowl, BETA Club and being a member of the WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering) team.
He plans to major in electrical engineering.