By JEFFREY SMITH
Leader staff writer
University of Arkansas Chancellor David Gearhart and other university officials presented chancellor scholarships to seven Cabot High School National Merit semifinalists Tuesday at the Cabot Public School Administration’s board room in front of family and school staff.
Each scholarship is for $8,000 a year for four years totaling $32,000. If the students make the University of Arkansas their first choice, an extra $2,000 a year is added.
The seven seniors awarded were Chloe Showalter, who plans to study pre-medicine; Brandon Kempf, who wants to study engineering; Jordan Reed, who is interested in international relations; Nathan Justus, who is interested in engineering; Michael McKinnie and Eric Walker, who have not yet chosen majors, and Harrison Cardillo, who wants to study chemistry and sociology.
“It is a great honor for officials from the University of Arkansas to make a special stop in Cabot to honor our National Merit semifinalists. We have many graduating seniors who choose the University of Arkansas as their college of choice out of high school. The partnerships we build with the U of A and every college within our state is of great benefit to our students as they make plans to further their education after high school,” Superintendent Dr. Tony Thurman said.
School board vice president Corey Williams said he is proud the chancellor took the time to personally deliver the scholarships to the students.
“It shows the level of respect he has for Cabot High School,” Williams said.
“From the board’s perspective, we are proud of our students,” he said.
Gearhart promised the students that the university will help them achieve their goals.
The students can apply for University of Arkansas honors college fellowships and for the governor’s distinguished scholarship.
