SP seniors named Lilly scholars

Two Putnam County students have been named recipients of full-tuition, four-year scholarships as the Putnam County Community Foundation's 2009 Lilly Endowment Community Scholars (LECS).

Tabitha Arnold

Seniors Tabitha Arnold and Tyler Heavin, both of South Putnam High School, will receive full tuition to any Indiana public or private college or university of their choice and an $800 yearly stipend for required books and equipment. The college or university must be accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Arnold, daughter of Troy and Marsha Arnold, Fillmore, is accepted at two Indiana higher education institutions (Butler University and Purdue University). Tabitha plans to major in pharmacy. Her career goal is to pursue licensure as a doctor of pharmacy.

Heavin, son of Melinda Heavin, Coatesville, is accepted at four Indiana higher education institutions (Butler University, DePauw University, Franklin College and Marion College). Tyler plans to major in chemistry/biology (pre-medical). His career goal is to become a board certified emergency physician.

Tyler Heavin

The LECS scholarship selection committee of the Putnam County Community Foundation selected five finalists for personal interviews from a field of 76 candidates. They were chosen for scholastic ability, moral and social commitment, the capacity to lead, and the ability to articulate a plan.

Finalists nominated for awards were submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana, Inc. (ICI) for the selection of the recipients. ICI is a nonprofit corporation that represents 31 regionally accredited degree granting, nonprofit, private colleges and universities in the state.

The scholarships are the result of a statewide Lilly Endowment initiative to help Hoosier students reach higher levels of education. Indiana ranks among the lowest states in the percentage of residents over the age of 25 with a bachelor's degree. There were 216 scholarships awarded statewide.