UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX REPEATS, EXPANDS FIRST CHANCE® SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM IN IDAHO
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County and Nampa can apply for Full-Tuition Scholarships

Workshop Dates (6:00 pm - 6:30 pm)
Meridian - Tuesday, November 17th
Garden City- Wednesday, November 18th
Nampa - Thursday, November 19th

Download the Application

MERIDIAN – Some say there is no time like the present to go back to school, and University of Phoenix is making that dream happen for six area residents.  The Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County and Nampa and University of Phoenix Idaho Campus today announced six full-tuition scholarships to attend University of Phoenix.  These scholarships are available to Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County and Nampa members, alumni, parents of members and staff. Applications are due by December 31, 2009 and the scholarship recipients will be formally recognized during the Idaho Business Review’s annual Women of the Year event in March 2010. 
            Last year the University awarded six scholarships to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Ada County.  Recipients included Club Member, Sarah Duvall; Staff Member, Jacob Barrientos; Club Parents, Tim Williams, Julie Wilde, Kimberly Border, Barbara Nesbit. This is the first year it is available in Canyon County.
            Nesbit dreamed of being a teacher for more than 30 years, and says her goal could not be realized without this scholarship award. Already, she’s gained new work opportunities because of her commitment in the classroom.
             “I graduated high school in 1983, so my first three weeks as a student was especially challenging,” said Barbara Nesbit, who is pursuing an undergraduate degree in elementary education. “With that behind me, I have to say this has been a very positive, fun and enjoyable experience and I’m looking forward to my future in the classroom!”
             “We are excited to be able to broaden the availability of this scholarship program to be more inclusive of the entire Treasure Valley,” said Dr. Bill Bach, University of Phoenix, Idaho Campus Director. “The scholarship award process we experienced last year was nothing short of inspiring.  Nationally and locally, the Boys and Girls Clubs do phenomenal work motivating young adults and changing our communities for a better tomorrow. We are glad to be able to give back to them in this significant way.”
            The First Chance® Scholarship Program was created in 2006 to promote the life-changing benefits of education, and honor individuals who have shown desire to improve their lives and the lives of those around them through education. The only condition is that applicants must not have any previous college experience with University of Phoenix or a prior bachelor’s degree or higher college degree. Eligibility criteria, selection process and scholarship applications can be found at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Idaho web site (http://www.bgclubidaho.org/). 
            “For over a twelve years the Boys & Girls Clubs have worked in Ada and Canyon Counties to inspire and empower youth to build a better future for themselves and our community,” said Colleen Braga, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County. “The University of Phoenix has shown faith and dedication to our efforts by extending a promise of a better future to the members of our Club community.  The scholarships they are providing will positively impact families for generations.”

About Boys & Girls Clubs
Boys and Girls Clubs of America comprises a national network of nearly 4,000 neighborhood- based facilities annually serving some 4 million youth, primarily from disadvantaged circumstances. Known as “The Positive Place for Kids,” Clubs provide guidance-oriented programs on a daily basis for children 6 – 18 years old, conducted by full-time, professional staff.  Key programs emphasize character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness, and recreation.

About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. As of May 31, 2009, there were 420,000students enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.

###

For more information about the First Chance Scholarship Program visit their website at www.firstchancescholarship.com