August 03, 2004
Jason DeVrieze wins presidential scholarship
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Jason DeVrieze, a graduate of Moline High School, is the recipient of a presidential scholarship from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
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 DeVrieze, son of Tim DeVrieze and Sandy DeVrieze of Moline.
DeVrieze 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."
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.
DeVrieze was an Illinois State Scholar, National Honor Society member, member of the All-Western Bix-Six Academic Team and member of the All-Sectional Scholastic Bowl. He also is an Eagle Scout. His activities included cross-country and track and he served as an editor on his high school newspaper.
He plans to major in computer science.