Press Release

IMAGINE AMERICA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 2007 MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Washington, D.C. (June 8, 2007) - Martha Frances Crigler Byrne passed away in 2004 after struggling with a long illness, but this is not what she is remembered for. She is remembered for her kindness, generosity and service to higher education. That's why the Imagine America Foundation established the Martha Frances Crigler Byrne Memorial Scholarship in 2005.

Crigler Byrne graduated from Shelbyville Central High School in Shelbyville, Tenn., in 1970. The scholarship presented in her name offers graduates of the school grants to attend the college of their choice. Recipients are chosen based on their academic records, community services and outreach.

This year, on May 11, the Imagine America Foundation presented four students with the scholarship. Nikita Graham and Taylor Crigler received the full scholarship amount of $5,000. Colleen Marquart and Chelsea Philpott were presented with $2,500.

"The outstanding students who receive this scholarship embody the kind and generous spirit of our friend and colleague Marty," said Bob Martin, president of the Imagine America Foundation. "I believe that, with the help of this scholarship, these students will be able to make as much of an impact on others as Marty did."

Martha Frances Crigler Byrne dedicated 10 years of her professional career working with the Career College Association to help people attain higher education. As Vice President of Operations, she was responsible for assisting countless individuals to gain access to postsecondary schooling. With this scholarship, the Imagine America Foundation continues to honor her commitment.

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The Imagine America Foundation (IAF), established in 1982, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing scholarship, research and training support for the career college sector. Since its inception, the Foundation has provided over $37 million in scholarship and award support for graduating high school seniors, adult learners and U.S. military veterans attending career colleges nationwide through its award-winning Imagine America® programs. The Foundation also publishes vital research publications for the higher education sector, honors achievement in career education and offers faculty development. For more information about the Imagine America Foundation’s programs, please visit www.imagine-america.org..