Science Bound to honor first Purdue class with full scholarships

The event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29, at the Crowne Plaza at Union Station, 123 W. Louisiana St., Indianapolis. As many as 500 students, parents, mentors and corporate partners will be in attendance.

Science Bound, a partnership among Purdue, the Indianapolis Public Schools and Indianapolis business community, was initiated by Jischke in his first year as president. It provides eligible students an opportunity to earn a four-year tuition scholarship to Purdue to study for a science-related career. The program, which started with 60 middle- and high-school students, has grown to more than 160 students who participate in science-related after-school activities, field trips and summer camps to enrich their academic experience.

Jischke said the program is making a difference for many students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to pursue higher education.

"Like me, many of these students will be the first in their families to attend college," Jischke said. "Through Science Bound, they have begun a process which will transform their lives if they remain committed to earning Purdue degrees. Their arrival on campus will be a very special moment for them and for all of us who believe in the power of education."

Wesley Campbell, Science Bound director, said, "We are so proud of these students, They have worked extremely hard to earn this opportunity by maintaining strong grade point averages, attending after-school programs and doing what they need to prepare for this next step in their academic careers."

Science Bound students Ainee Sykes, a senior at Arlington High School and Allias Jones, a senior at Arsenal Technical High School, will share their experiences with the program at the dinner. Corporate sponsors also will be recognized.

The evening will conclude with an awards presentation for students who have excelled in the program at all grade levels.

"Science Bound has enjoyed another remarkable year, thanks to the generosity of the Indianapolis business community," Campbell said. "Internships with Indianapolis-based businesses, Career Day, field trips and a variety of other opportunities for these students would never happen without their support."

Writer: Marydell Forbes, (765) 496-7704, mforbes@purdue.edu

Sources: Martin C. Jischke, (765) 494-9708

Wesley Campbell, (765) 494-0018, wesleyl@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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