Scholarship program sets records

MRA received a record number of applications for a record number of college scholarships for the 2004-05 academic year.

A total of 303 high school and college students submitted applications, an increase of 30 percent over last year, according to Scholarship Program Administrators, which oversees the program for the Association. Last year’s 232 applicants also set a record, showing that the program continues to expand quickly.

Applicants are competing for at least 21 scholarships, up from 15 in each of the past three years.

“More scholarships, a boost in the size of the public university awards and rapidly escalating college tuitions are all likely reasons for such strong member interest in MRA’s scholarship program,” said Larry Meyer, chairman and CEO.

The increase in scholarships is due to greater assets in the Michigan Retailers Foundation, the non-profit organization established to finance the scholarship program. The scholarship amount for those attending public colleges or universities was also increased from $750 to $1,000, matching the amount for those attending private institutions.

A selection panel of educators chosen by Scholarship Program Administrators was scheduled to meet the last week in April to evaluate the applicants and award the scholarships. Recipients will be notified by early May. Employees of MRA-member businesses and their sons and daughters are eligible for the awards.

“The value of this program for our members and their families becomes more evident each year. Considering the strong demand, we’re excited that the Michigan Retailers Foundation’s growing assets made more scholarship money available for the upcoming school year,” said James Hallan, president and chief operating officer.

“We encourage all members to help the foundation continue growing by making tax-deductible contributions. The ‘Links to a Legacy’ campaign also provides increasing recognition for contributors as their donations grow over time.”

Additional information about the scholarship program is available at www.retailers.com/eduandevents/foundscholarships.html.