20 Philly Scholars Get the Credit They Are Due

Community College of Philadelphia awarded 20 two-year scholarships to deserving graduates from Philadelphia public and private schools during the Robert S. King Scholars Award Ceremony and Reception on Sept. 12.

The scholarship honors Robert S. King, the trustee who served the College for 24 years and later became an Emeritus Trustee. King remained an advocate of the College until his death in 2012 at age 90. 

The scholarship is awarded to outstanding local students who have graduated near the top of their class from a registered or licensed diploma-granting high school and seek an associate’s degree.

During this year’s ceremony, King’s daughter, Rev. Gwendolyn King, congratulated the students and their families and encouraged them to make the most of this experience. “What you make of this opportunity is totally up to you, but we believe in you,” she said. “Community college didn’t exist in my dad’s day, but it exists now for you.”

Ashley Mason, a 2012 recipient of the Robert S. King Scholarship, encouraged the scholars to participate in study groups and told them not to be afraid to ask for help. Mason, who wants to become a health care administrator, plans to transfer to Drexel University after earning her associate’s degree. She currently is working for the CEO of Guest Relations at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

The College has many scholarships available for deserving students, said Patti Conroy, associate director of Scholarship Programs.

“It’s one of our premier scholarships, and it’s a tremendous opportunity for high school seniors to come here, complete two years, including summers, with very little costs . . . That’s a phenomenal opportunity these days,” she said.

Applications for next year’s scholarships are due June 1, 2014. Visit the Scholarships section for more on eligibility requirements and to search available scholarships.