Thirty-seven Westminster College freshmen have been accepted into the Young Presbyterian Scholars Program.

 "Our interest is in serving the church by offering the first and best opportunity to attend Westminster to young Presbyterians," said R. Thomas Williamson, president of Westminster College.

 In 2002, as Westminster College celebrated its 150th anniversary, the Board of Trustees took a serious look at the question of what it means to be a Presbyterian Church (PC) related college.  As a result, the decision was made last fall to offer scholarships, worth $11,000 annually, to outstanding PC (USA) students and offer them a way to continue to grow in faith and leaderships while on the Westminster campus.  The scholarships are given to all PC (USA) congregations, in essence, to award to a student of their choosing who meets the qualifications of active memberships in a PC (USA) congregation, and exhibits a 3.5 or higher cumulative high school grade point average.  Nominations must be received from a PC (USA) pastor.

"We have begun a journey with the 37 YPS students that I am sure will take us beyond our expectations," said Carey Anne Meyer LaSor, coordinator of the Young Presbyterian Scholars Program.  "I think that the first best thing we did was match student mentors with the YPS students.  The idea that someone is watching out for them, interested in them, checking in on them and inviting them to lunch or dinner or vespers has been key in how they have settled into life and classwork here.  The Program intends to provide for their personal, spiritual, and leadership growth, building on the abilities and potential they already possess."

"With 19 of the 37 students from out of state and our area, this has been a 'welcome mat' that they have really needed," LaSor added.  "I am convinced that the outcome of this program is going to affect this community with young men and women whose academic abilities coincide quite closely with a strong, active spiritual life.  And I believe that will be a lasting legacy as they stride into the world."

 For more information, contact LaSor at (724) 946-7365 or e-mail meyerca@westminster.edu.

 Nominations for the 2005-2006 scholarships are due by Oct. 31.  Visit www.westminster.edu/yps for more information about the Young Presbyterian Scholars Program.

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