In only four years, the Association has funded one-year full-tuition scholarships for 11 deserving students. According to Cherrelyn Napue, director of alumni relations and executive director of the alumni association, the program has been successful not only because of contributions from alumni to the Annual Fund, but also because of the support of faculty and staff who attend the Association's special fundraising events, such as the upcoming Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Dec. 9 at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

This year's Alumni Scholars, Ann Toro-Allen and Robert Franklin II, received their awards at the Association's annual meeting Sept. 9.

Toro-Allen will graduate next fall with a major in English and a minor and teacher licensure in elementary education. She plans to teach fifth or sixth grade in the Denver metro area. A single mom and role model for her two children, Toro-Allen carries a heavy load, however education is her top priority. "My children's support and pride in my achievements help me through the tough times, and I am so privileged to have them in my life," she says.

As a 22-year-old full-time student and father of an energetic baby daughter, Franklin has a full plate and high ambitions: he aspires to be president one day. After he graduates next summer with a degree in political science and a social studies minor, he plans to teach in middle school or high school while advancing his political career. "I have to be knowledgeable in the field of politics. Otherwise I'm just a mouthpiece for those who stand behind me," he says.

The Association's goal is to provide five Alumni Scholar Awards next year, and Napue says the campus community can help alumni reach this goal by purchasing tickets to the Christmas Spectacular.

"It would make a great present, or if you want to attend and bring your family, I know you'll have a wonderful time," Napue said. "Even better, you'll be helping deserving seniors at the same time."

To purchase tickets go to:
http://www.mscd.edu/~alumni/alm_xmas.htm