Vanderbilt Eighth-Grade Student Wins $5,000 College Scholarship

Martin Dimitrov, an eighth-grade student at Vanderbilt Charter Academy, was surprised during an assembly with a $5,000 college scholarship. Principal Jeff Groggel announced Martin as one of seven recipients of the 2018 National Heritage Academies (NHA^®) CollegeBound^TM Scholarship.
 
Students from 84 schools around the country applied for the one-time college scholarship from NHA, the school’s charter management company. Out of hundreds of applicants, seven were awarded the $5,000 scholarship to be used for their future college endeavors.
 
As part of the application process, each applicant was required to write a personal essay on one of four topics.
 
Martin is an active member of National Junior Honor Society, Fabiano’s Martial Arts, and Vanderbilt marching band.   
 
“On behalf of National Heritage Academies, I want to congratulate Martin Dimitrov on winning one of the 2018 NHA CollegeBound Scholarships,” said Tari Reinink, NHA chief marketing officer. “Martin is an excellent example of what we hope for all NHA students. With strong academics, admirable character, and a passion for community, I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes in the future. I wish Martin the best of luck on his next academic venture.”
 
All eighth-grade students who attend an NHA school are eligible for the scholarship. An independent professional selection group chose the winners based on their essay submission, academics, and community service.
 
Ninety-three percent of the scholarship money comes directly from NHA employee donations. Many NHA employees see the scholarship fund as an opportunity to further support students and help them on the path toward college readiness.

About Vanderbilt Charter Academy
​Vanderbilt Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Holland, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA^®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.

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