Ford awards scholarships to Native American students

Ford awards scholarships to Native American students

Minority students who need assistance paying for school may be eligible for many different financial aid programs. The U.S. government, private organizations and universities often reserve funds each year specifically to be awarded as scholarships, many of which are for minority learners. These programs are created in order to promote diversity on American campuses and provide educational opportunities for those who may be disadvantaged.

For example, the American Indian College Fund recently received a grant in the amount of $50,000 from the Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. The grant will be used to continue the Ford Motor Company Corporate Scholars Program, which provides financial aid to Native American students who attend tribal colleges and traditional universities.

The Ford Motor Company Fund also sponsors the American Indian College Fund's Annual Flame of Hope Gala, which raises money for Native student scholarships and promotes awareness about the nation's 33 tribal colleges and universities.

"At Ford, we understand that the strength of our country relies on the quality of its leaders and the education they receive," said Mike Schmidt of the Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial aid may be available in the form of scholarships, grants, loans and federal work-study. These opportunities are available to students with a wide variety of backgrounds and interests.

By Mark Danson