Northwestern Lehigh High School student Caitlyn Morrison was recently selected to receive the 2016 Horatio Alger State and Specialized Scholarship award.

Morrison’s state and specialized scholarship was funded through the generosity of the Neubauer Family Foundation and Horatio Alger Association Member Alan B. Miller.

Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honors the achievements of outstanding individuals and encourages youth to pursue their dreams through higher education.

These young men and women are recognized for their admirable commitment to continuing their education and serving their communities, despite facing significant adversity.

Since 1984, Horatio Alger Association has administered one of the nation’s largest privately funded, need-based scholarship programs, having awarded more than $125 million in undergraduate, graduate and specialized scholarships to students from across the United States, including all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Canada.

In 2000, 16 years after the establishment of its National Scholarship Program, Horatio Alger members began funding scholarships concentrated in each state to further its mission of assisting deserving young people to pursue higher education.

Additionally, association members fund a series of specialized scholarships, which are targeted to students based on specific degrees programs or academic institutions.

“Horatio Alger Scholars exhibit perseverance and an unwavering commitment to continuing their education,” said Tony Novelly, chairman, Horatio Alger Association. “By providing these young men and women with the emotional and financial resources they need, Horatio Alger Association furthers its mission of encouraging youth to pursue the American Dream.

“The 2016 Horatio Alger State and Specialized Scholars are an exceptional group of talented students and our members are honored to help support their future success.”

Collectively, the 2016 Horatio Alger State and Specialized Scholarship recipients have maintained an average grade point average of 3.6 and ACT score of 24 (above the national average).

Each recipient is awarded an average of $7,000 to apply toward tuition of their selected college or university.

“Horatio Alger Scholarship recipients have demonstrated the ability to overcome personal adversity while maintaining a resilient spirit on their individual paths to success,” said Byron Trott, president and CEO, Horatio Alger Association. “Hard work, determination and perseverance are admirable qualities, which all of these scholars possess.

“The association is proud to support this year’s class of state and specialized scholars as they continue to pursue their endeavors and successfully accomplish their educational and professional goals.”

For a complete list of 2016 Horatio Alger State and Specialized Scholars, visit scholars.horatioalger.org.