August 05, 2004
Mitchell Ward wins presidential scholarship
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Mitchell Ward, a graduate of Edwards County High School, is the recipient of a presidential scholarship from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Ward 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 Ward, son of Steve and Bev Ward of Albion.
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 classes.
Ward's honors include being named an Illinois State Scholar and being listed on the National Honor Roll and in "Who's Who Among American High School Students." He was active in the National Honor Society, a member of WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering), Future Business Leaders of America, ALPHA (Adolescents Learning Positive Health Alternatives), band and the Scholastic Bowl.
He plans to major in computer/electrical engineering.