Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012

Bank gives scholarship dollars

Bank of America has continued its support of Wake Tech programs for adults who are completing high school and want to continue their education. The financial institution has donated $30,000 for student scholarships. The funds will support graduates of Wake Tech's GED and Adult High School programs who want to take additional courses at Wake Tech to acquire new skills or prepare for degree programs.

In 2009-10, Wake Tech provided basic skills to more than 8,000 individuals, 25 percent of whom were in high school equivalency programs. About 830 students earned GED and AHS diplomas.

"Bank of America's support for these programs is especially valuable because it helps adult learners take that very important next step toward higher education," said Dr. Stephen Scott, president of Wake Tech. "That step can make an enormous difference in their quality of life - and in the future they build for themselves and their families."

More than 16,000 students in North Carolina dropped out of high school last year. Without a high school diploma, young adults are twice as likely to be incarcerated and 40 percent more likely to be unemployed periodically or on government assistance throughout their lives.

Bank of America contributed $10,000 to the GED, AHS and HEP programs last year. In the two years before, BOA contributed $6,500 to Wake Tech's Fostering Bright Futures Fellowship, a program that helps former foster children in Wake County earn college degrees by providing academic tutoring, life mentors and financial support.