The Boettcher Foundation announced this week 40 Boettcher Foundation Scholars statewide, two of whom are DPS students attending East High School, 1545 Detroit St. Both will attend the University of Colorado at Boulder in the fall - Cayla Chavez-Murphy and Emily Gade.

These awards cover virtually all college expenses for recipients who choose to further their education in their home state of Colorado. The scholarships consist of full tuition, fees and book allowance, as well as an annual stipend for living expenses. The scholarships are granted for eight semesters at either a public or private four-year college or university within the state as long as the Scholar maintains a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Selection is strictly “merit-based,” allowing all seniors in Colorado to compete based upon their individual accomplishments. This year’s scholarship winners were selected from among 900 qualified applicants on the basis of their academic performance, demonstrated ability, outstanding character and their participation and leadership in both school and community activities. To be eligible for one of these prestigious awards, students must rank among the top 5 percent of their graduating class, have a score of at least 1200 on the SAT or 27 ACT, and be a U.S. citizen and a Colorado resident for their junior and senior year of high school.

Each year, the Boettcher Foundation grants 40 merit-based scholarships to superior young persons from Colorado high schools. Begun in 1952 as a statewide competition recognizing scholarship, leadership and achievement in young men and women, the program has sought to reward outstanding high school seniors who demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to Colorado. Since the program’s inception, the Foundation has awarded 1879 scholarships. The Boettcher Foundation provides in excess of $2.2 million annually in scholarship support making the program one of the largest merit-based scholarship programs in the nation.

For information, contact Amy Turner, the Boettcher Foundation, 303-285-6210, or the DPS Public Information Office, 720-423-3414.