Two Sequim High School students will be among those honored for academic achievement and community involvement at the annual Washington Scholars ceremony May 20.
Olivia O. Boots, whose area of study is public affairs, and Eric V. Huston, whose focus is aeronautical engineering, are part of this year’s class of 147 Washington Scholars and 49 Scholar Alternates who will be honored with a morning ceremony in the state House of Representatives chambers and an afternoon luncheon at the Red Lion Hotel in Olympia.
Created by the state Legislature in 1981, the Washington Scholars program honors three high school seniors from each of the state’s 49 legislative districts for their academic excellence, leadership and participation in school and community activities.
Gov. Chris Gregoire has been invited to deliver the luncheon keynote address.
Washington Scholars receive grants equivalent to 90 percent of the value of public college tuition for the next two years.
For those attending a Washington state independent college or university, the grants are contingent upon the school matching the state grant dollar-for-dollar with institutional gift aid or tuition waiver.
Scholars must maintain a 3.30 minimum cumulative grade-point average to continue receiving grant money after the first three academic quarters or two semesters of study.
The program is administered by the Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Association of Washington School Principals.
For more information, see www.hecb.wa.gov/Paying/waaidprgm/wsp.asp.