Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga awarded 44 students each with a $1,250 scholarship during the annual Scholarship Banquet. Part of a yearly initiative, local McDonald’s owners have funded more than $587,000 in scholarships since 2002 by the sales of patriotic paper flags in their restaurants from Memorial Day to July 4.
McDonald’s owners present this scholarship to students in the Greater Chattanooga area based on their all-around excellence in areas of citizenship, leadership, scholarship and extracurricular activities.
As local business owners, it is important to us to give back to the community that has given so much to us,” said Art Holekamp, McDonald’s owner operator. “We hope these scholarships will make a difference in the lives of these students who have worked hard for their success.”
Students began the application process for this award in November. Five volunteer judges reviewed each application and the top 60 students were then invited for a personal interview before a panel. Once the 44 students were chosen by the selection committee, the RMHC Board of Directors ratified the award recipients.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to award these scholarships to deserving students again this year,” said Jane Kaylor, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga. “The Scholarship Banquet is something the RMHC Board and our local McDonald’s Owners look forward to each year. The scholarship process is truly a community effort and we are proud to be a part of it.”