The Stratford, a retirement community located in Carmel, announced it is giving away nearly $3,750 in cash prizes to be used for future college expenses by local high school seniors. The Silver Pen Scholarship is open to high school seniors with plans to graduate in 2012. The scholarship is for seniors in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville and surrounding areas.
First place will receive a plaque and $1,500; second place will receive a certificate and $1,000, third place will receive a certificate and $750 and fourth place will receive a certificate and $500. Winning participants will receive their prizes at a formal award reception at The Stratford in May.
Entries will be judged by a group of retired business professionals, educators and community leaders. Judging is based on several criterion including creativity, fluidity of language and the ability to convey complex feelings in a concise and clear manner. This year’s topic asks students to consider the perspective of a person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
“There’s no doubt we can do a better job of educating our children and young adults about important topics related to aging in America,” said Sam Carrillo, The Stratford’s executive director. “Our nation is faced with a shortage of knowledge and resources for a rapidly aging population. The goal of The Silver Pen is to get young adults interested in the process of aging so we can foster a culture of mutual understanding and respect for the aged in our society.”
The deadline for entries is March 30. Students interested in participating in The Silver Pen contest should request an application by email at SCarrillo@Stratford-Living.com.