SPRING 2021

Introducing the 2022 Award Recipients pg. 6

MOVING FORWARD: A Plan for the Future based on the Blueprint for Excellence & Growth pg. 24

RECAP: Scholar Services Make a Difference pg. 35

Horatio Alger Association of Canada Plans for Expansion pg. 44 MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The Horatio Alger Association has used this unprecedented time in our history as an organization to remain focused on the future with exciting plans for growth. Using our Blueprint for Excellence and Growth as a guide, we have maintained the Association’s momentum in all areas of operation:

• Membership

• Educational Programs and Services

• Public Outreach

• Research and Publications

• Fiscal Activities

Our cover story, “Moving Forward: A Blueprint for the Future,” explores new developments as we pursue our mission to make a positive impact on North America’s future leaders.

This issue of The Forum also features the Horatio Alger Class of 2022. Their life stories reinforce that the tried-and-true values of hard work, determination, and perseverance are what propelled them to the pinnacles of success. We congratulate the newest Award recipients and we look forward to welcoming them during the celebration of our 75th anniversary of the founding of the Horatio Alger Association during the Awards Ceremonies in April 2022. We also look forward to acknowledging the valuable contributions of Tom Selleck, since his induction in 2000, by presenting him with the 2022 Norman Vincent Peale Award.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, Horatio Alger Scholars have had to work through many challenges, such as the closing of college campuses. Be sure to read about how our Scholars have fared in these difficult times and what the Association has done to assist and support them in”Outreach to Scholars Reaps Uplifting Results (pg. 40).”

The new directions the Association is taking are exciting and will offer additional ways of expanding our national visibility. We have come far since our founding in 1947 and have much to celebrate during our 75th anniversary in 2022. We look forward to that milestone as we continue our mission and commitment to ensuring the American Dream for generations to come.

Horatio Alger Association Executive Committee

MATTHEW K. ROSE DENNIS R. WASHINGTON CHAIRMAN CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

JAMES F. DICKE II WALTER SCOTT, JR. PRESIDENT ENDOWMENT FUND CHAIRMAN & PRESIDENT

GREG E. ABEL V. PREM WATSA VICE PRESIDENT HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF CANADA PRESIDENT

ANTHONY WELTERS VALERIE MONTGOMERY RICE TREASURER MEMBER-AT-LARGE

BYRON D. TROTT GREG P. RENKER IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN MEMBER-AT-LARGE

PAUL ANTHONY NOVELLY CHAIRMAN EMERITUS SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2021

MEMBERSHIP & BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OCTOBER 6-8, 2021 | THE BREAKERS | PALM BEACH, FLORIDA

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 75TH ANNUAL

HORATIO ALGER AWARDS April 7–9, 2022 • Washington, D.C. As we carry out our mission, we hope all Members, Life Partners, and Friends will be with us to welcome the newest class of distinguished Members and National Scholars from the and Canada. CONTENTS 35 SCHOLAR AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM NEWS 24 MOVING FORWARD: A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE

6 CONGRATULATIONS 4 TO THE CLASS OF 2022 NORMAN VINCENT 2022 PEALE AWARD RECIPIENT: TOM SELLECK Also in this issue

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE 44 HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF 54 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? COMMITTEE CANADA PLANS FOR EXPANSION 56 OUR IMPACT 31 LEGACY AMBASSADORS AND 45 IN TRIBUTE FRIENDS OF DISTINCTION 57 FUTURE EVENTS 49 IN THE NEWS 33 UPDATES FROM THE BOARD SOCIAL MEDIA ROUNDUP 42 FIVE MINUTES WITH DAVID JOHNSTON 52 2022 NORMAN VINCENT PEALE AWARD RECIPIENT TOM SELLECK Actor/Producer Class of 2000

The Norman Vincent Peale Award of victimhood, and I thank you all for is the highest honor bestowed by reminding us of that important lesson.” the Association on Members in He went on to discuss the value of recognition of their involvement, good character, saying, “Right now you support, and service to its are all consumed with WHAT you want mission. Tom Selleck (’00) is the to be, but I hope you will take time to 2022 recipient of the Peale Award. consider WHO you want to be.” His service to the Association in support of the annual Awards events Five years later, Selleck once again was and national visibility efforts are deeply the featured speaker at the Members appreciated. Luncheon—this time at the U.S. Department of State. Part of his advice Tom Selleck was inducted into the and words of wisdom include, “The Horatio Alger Association in 2000. pursuit of happiness doesn’t guarantee That year he gave the keynote address you anything but the right to chase at the Members Luncheon—held it. If you follow your dreams, you’ll at the Building and probably discover your talent. Luck is International Trade Center. During unpredictable, but talent tends to take his talk, he said to the Scholars in advantage of it; therefore, the talented attendance, “You chose not to nurse tend to have more of it. Life isn’t fair, a grievance, but to overcome it. You but you can be.” have chosen perseverance instead

4 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Using his talent and skills as an actor to Several times, Selleck moderated Throughout his years of involvement gain national visibility for the Horatio a segment of the Awards Induction with the Horatio Alger Association, Alger Association, Selleck narrated Ceremony, which featured Scholars Selleck has focused his attention on the public service announcements. He and the Association’s educational Scholars. During his induction year of also narrated the Association’s Against programs. Then, from 2010 to 2017, 2000, he became a personal mentor the odds: The Next Generation he co-emceed the annual Awards to Scholar Tara Cutting. The two have series, which highlights the courage Induction Ceremony with fellow remained in contact over the years, and determination of three National Member Lou Dobbs (’99). In 2018, and in 2020 Tara was selected as the Scholars in each episode. he once again co-emceed the Alumna of the Year. Awards Induction Ceremony— this time with Byron Pitts (’17). The Horatio Alger Association is proud to salute Tom Selleck as the 2022 Tom Selleck with National Scholars. Norman Vincent Peale Recipient.

The Norman Vincent Peale Award.

Lou Dobbs and Tom Selleck co-emceed the Annual Awards Induction Ceremony from 2010 to 2017.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 5 CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS of

2022The Class of 2022 will be introduced during the 75th anniversary of the Horatio Alger Association at the Horatio Alger Awards Induction Ceremonies in Washington, D.C., April 7–9, 2022. In the following pages we salute:

6 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 JAMES R. ANDREWS HORACIO D. ROZANSKI

RITA L. CASE G. BRINT RYAN

ARTHUR J. FALCONE WALTER SCHROEDER

MARIO J. GABELLI JANE SEYMOUR

STEDMAN GRAHAM DAVID A. THOMPSON

STANLEY KROENKE HERSCHEL J. WALKER

ROBERT A. MCDONALD RONALD G. WANEK

STEVEN S REINEMUND GEORGE A. WEISS

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 7 DR. JAMES R. ANDREWS Orthopaedic Surgeon, Andrews Institute Chairman, Andrews Research & Education Foundation Chairman, American Sports Medicine Institute

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in School. Over the years, Andrews has 1942, James Andrews grew up become known internationally for his on a farm with his mother and skills as an orthopaedic surgeon. His grandparents while his father prestigious patients include athletes served overseas during World Bo Jackson, Troy Aikman, Drew Brees, War II. He worked on the farm in Emmitt Smith, Roger Clemens, Charles his childhood and later worked in Barkley, and Jack Nicklaus. Andrews a dry-cleaning shop. An avid athlete, has long served as a mentor to athletes he made it an early goal to become a and doctors, passing on his personal NOMINATED BY sports doctor. On his way to achieving philosophy of “never look back and WILLIAM J. DORÉ his goal, Andrews was devastated wonder what if or if only.” 2000 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER when his beloved father died suddenly during Andrews’s sophomore year in college. He persevered through his grief and earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Louisiana State University and completed his residency training at Tulane Medical

8 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Rita Case was born in in car dealer. Together they opened the 1955, where her parents owned and first Hyundai and Acura dealerships operated a small auto repair shop. Rita and became the largest in the grew up helping with the business by country. They worked tirelessly answering the phones, sweeping the side by side to build the Rick Case floors, and stocking in parts. When Automotive Group, which today she was 13, her parents were issued operates 14 dealerships in South the first Honda automobile franchise Florida and Atlanta, Georgia. in the United States. After school, Sadly, Rita’s husband and business NOMINATED BY on weekends and every summer she partner died in 2020. Rita now serves RONALD M. worked to learn every position in the as the President, CEO and Owner of BERGERON, SR. dealership. She knew she wanted ’s largest retail auto group 2018 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER to be a car dealer. Rita’s youth was owned and operated by a woman. challenged by family addiction issues. She vows to keep the company family- PAUL ANTHONY NOVELLY 2000 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER Later, she faced challenges in her owned for generations to come. Rick career as a female working in the and Rita Case have long served male-dominated auto industry. Rita as generous philanthropists to graduated with a degree in economics many educational organizations from the University of California, and charities, including 4-year Davis. She continued to work at her university and vocational parents’ car dealership and became scholarships for members of Boys the general manager after college. In and Girls Clubs. 1980, she married Rick Case, a Honda

RITA L. CASE President, CEO, and Owner Rick Case Automotive Group SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 9 ARTHUR J. FALCONE CEO & Chairman Falcone Group Co-Founder & Managing Principal Encore Capital Management

Arthur Falcone was born in Queens, homebuilding company in the country. Long Island, New York, in 1959. Today, Falcone continues to develop He grew up facing economic major real estate projects through adversity and quickly came to his private equity firm. A dedicated learn the meaning of hard work. philanthropist, he funded the Falcone Though money was tight in his Family Biz Town as part of the Junior household, his policeman father was Achievement World Huizenga Center. appointed to lead the police Boys This entity serves more than 56,000 Club and demonstrated giving back by students from Broward County, Florida, NOMINATED BY becoming a mentor to disadvantaged with a day of experiential financial HARRY S. PATTEN youth at the Boys Club. Falcone learning. He has also given generously, 2011 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER entered the business world at age both financially and with his time, to 19 and soon became the youngest causes related to children, healthcare, franchisee for McDonald’s. Eventually, and education. he became a real estate developer and built his business, Transeastern Properties, into the largest private

10 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Mario Gabelli, a Bronx, New York, Business School, earning his MBA in native, started working at the age of 1965. After 10 years working as an five when he retrofitted an old army equity analyst, he formed Gabelli & ammunition box into a shoe-shine Co., a brokerage house. A year later, kit, which he located at the Third he founded GAMCO Investors, which Avenue EL on 174th Street, today is a diversified financial services plying his trade. Always a hard company that manages in excess of worker, he paid for his education $30 billion and employs 250 people. selling seeds and Christmas cards. With the belief that education is the When he was older, he hitchhiked great equalizer in society, Gabelli is to a country club to work as a caddy. a generous philanthropist to several NOMINATED BY In college, he organized off-campus colleges and universities. LEON G. COOPERMAN social events. Gabelli achieved a 2015 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER degree in accounting from Fordham University’s School of Business (now named for Mario Gabelli), graduating with honors. With the help of a scholarship, he attended Columbia

MARIO J. GABELLI Chairman and Chief Executive Officer GAMCO Investors, Inc.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 11 STEDMAN GRAHAM Chairman and CEO S. Graham & Associates

The oldest of six children, two of whom Northwestern University had special needs, Stedman Graham and also a former adjunct was born in 1951 in Whitesboro, New professor at the University Jersey, where his father worked as a of Illinois-Chicago, where house painter. Graham earned degrees he developed his Nine from Hardin-Simmons University in Step Success Process® 1974 and a master’s degree from Ball for leadership. Personally State University in 1979. In 1988, he committed to education and NOMINATED BY founded S. Graham and Associates, a lifelong learning, he says, “Individuals ROBERT J. BROWN 1990 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER corporate and educational consulting should not be defined by their firm. During his career, he has authored circumstances, but only by their 12 books—two of which were New possibilities.” York Times bestsellers—served as a college lecturer, and has worked with and trained thousands of young people in various countries worldwide. Graham is a former professor at Kellogg Graduate School of Management at

12 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 E. Stanley “Stan” Kroenke was centers, apartment buildings and born in 1947 near the small farming warehouses throughout North America community of Mora, Missouri, and in Europe. He founded Kroenke population 23. Kroenke grew up with Sports & Entertainment in 1999 and a great enthusiasm for sports, but his is the owner of Arsenal Football Club, parents also taught him the worthy the Rams, the Denver values of hard work, humility, integrity, Nuggets, the and and an understanding that the best their venues. In 2016, Kroenke broke opportunities are those one creates ground on Hollywood Park near Los for him or herself. While in elementary Angeles, one of the largest privately school, Kroenke worked in his father’s financed real estate projects in the hardware store and lumberyard, country, which includes the iconic SoFi sweeping floors and learning and a substantial amount of accounting, for which he earned a retail, residential, office, and hotel few dollars a day. An outstanding development. SoFi Stadium will host NOMINATED BY high school athlete and student, the 2022 , the 2023 College MIKE JACKSON he won an academic scholarship to Football National Championship 2014 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER the University of Missouri, where he Game, and the 2028 Olympic majored in business. From the same opening and closing ceremonies. Avid school, he earned his MBA in 1973. philanthropists, the Kroenke family’s In 1983, he founded The Kroenke interests include youth fitness and Group, a real estate development firm education, community service, arts that builds and owns retail shopping enrichment, natural disaster recovery, and conservation.

STANLEY KROENKE Founder and Owner The Kroenke Group

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 13 ROBERT A. MCDONALD 8th Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs Retired Chairman, President, and CEO The Procter & Gamble Company

Robert McDonald was born in 1953 in attained the position of chief Gary, Indiana, and grew up in a house operating officer in 2007 across from the Calumet River and and shortly thereafter was NOMINATED BY the steel mills. As a child, McDonald elected as the chairman LEE R. ANDERSON, SR. dreamed of a bigger life of service. In and chief executive 2014 HORATIO ALGER the sixth grade, he decided to pursue officer. He retired from MEMBER an appointment to the U.S. Military P&G in 2013. The Academy at West Point. He achieved following year, he his dream in 1971. An able student served his country once again and athlete, he quickly rose to the when he was nominated and top of his class. Following graduation confirmed to be U.S. Secretary of in 1975, he served in the U.S. Army Veterans Affairs, a position he held for five years, attaining the rank of admirably for three-plus years. captain and earning an MBA from the University of Utah in 1978. He began his 33-year career with Procter & Gamble (P&G) in 1980 and accepted assignments around the world as he climbed the corporate ladder. He

14 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Born in 1948 in Queens, New York, 1970. After serving for five years in the Steve Reinemund was only six when Marine Corps and achieving the rank his father died suddenly, leaving of captain, he earned his MBA—on a 29-year-old widow with three scholarship—from the University of children. Steve’s mother, with Virginia. His highly successful corporate only a high school education, went career included serving as CEO of Pizza to work as a secretary to support her Hut, president and CEO of Frito-Lay, family. Reinemund worked numerous and chairman and CEO of PepsiCo. In jobs starting at age 10 to help his 2008, he left corporate life to become mother. A strong leader in high school, dean of the Wake Forest University NOMINATED BY he achieved an appointment to the School of Business. JAMES M. SENEFF, JR. U.S. Naval Academy and graduated in 2010 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER

STEVEN S REINEMUND Retired Dean of Business Wake Forest University Retired Chairman & CEO PepsiCo SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 15 HORACIO D. ROZANSKI President and Chief Executive Officer Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Born in 1968 in Buenos Aires, with Booz Allen Hamilton, joined the Argentina, Horacio Rozanski company, and became a partner by was raised during a turbulent the time he was 31. A proven visionary, and difficult time in a country he became CEO in 2015. Booz Allen ruled by a military dictatorship. employs nearly 27,000 people and He experienced a declining had revenues of $6.7 billion last fiscal educational system, and saw year. Rozanski is a member of the the rise of anti-Semitism, terrorism, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s and eventually the Falklands war. Committee on Conscience, the NOMINATED BY Rozanski began his college education Kennedy Center Corporate Fund LINDA D. RABBITT at the University of Buenos Aires but Board, and the Children’s National 2016 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER immigrated to the United States at age Medical Center Board of Directors. 19. He received a partial scholarship to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where he worked on campus to help cover the remaining costs. He graduated summa cum laude and then earned his MBA with high honors from the University of Chicago. He interned

16 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 G. Brint Ryan was born in 1964 in Big accounting. After working as a Spring, Texas, the son of teenage tax specialist, he founded Ryan, NOMINATED BY parents. Unfortunately, his home life LLC in 1993, which today is JOSEPH GRANT was adversely affected by his parents’ the largest company in the 2010 HORATIO use of alcohol. Their lives were often United States dedicated ALGER MEMBER chaotic and sometimes violent. to business tax services. Eventually, in his twenties, Ryan lost Ryan has never forgotten those his mother and almost lost his sister in who helped him in the past, and separate alcohol-related automobile he is a generous donor to the accidents. After those experiences, University of North Texas—giving he vowed to never drink again. the school the largest donation Despite his difficulties at home, he ever received to create the G. Brint was a diligent student. He worked as Ryan College of Business. a grocery bagger and night manager to help fund his way through the University of North Texas, graduating with a combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in

G. BRINT RYAN Founder, Chairman & CEO Ryan, LLC SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 17 INTERNATIONAL HORATIO ALGER AWARD RECIPIENT WALTER SCHROEDER Founder DBRS Ltd.

Walter Schroeder grew up in north- Colonial House Capital Ltd. An NOMINATED BY central Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. active philanthropist, he is V. PREM WATSA The child of immigrants, he founded the creator and executive 2012 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER Dominion Bond Rating Services Ltd. producer of No Change (DBRS), opening its first location—a in the Weather, a jukebox tiny, 1,500-square-foot office in musical presenting 18 of Toronto—in 1976. Schroeder and Newfoundland’s greatest folk his associates built DBRS into the songs as a story. No Change fourth-largest debt rating agency in in the Weather is currently on a the world. As the sole owner of the North American tour. Schroeder company for nearly 40 years, he served graduated with an MBA from as president of DBRS from its founding McMaster University. He is also a until he became chairman in 2008. certified public accountant (CPA) and a In 2015, DBRS was acquired by The chartered financial analyst (CFA). Carlyle Group and Warburg Pincus. Since selling DRBS, Schroeder has served as Chairman of the family office

18 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Jane Seymour was born in 1951 role in the television series Dr. Quinn, in Middlesex, England, where her Medicine Woman. For all her many father was a doctor working for achievements, Seymour—now a U.S. the National Health Service. She citizen—has had difficult times in her grew up with her three younger life. Drawing inspiration from those sisters in a modest household. As experiences, she has penned several a teenager, Seymour attended a self-help and inspirational books and performing arts school, hoping is a highly successful businesswoman. to be a ballet dancer. Injuries In 2010, Seymour founded the Open dashed her dream, but her resilient Hearts Foundation. The foundation, nature turned her to acting. She made based on selfless giving even in the NOMINATED BY her first film appearance at the age GLENN B. STERNS face of adversity, is committed to 2011 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER of 18. Soon thereafter, she achieved empowering emerging and growing international fame in her role as a Bond nonprofit organizations whose origins GREG P. RENKER girl in Live and Let Die—and she has and missions are consistent with 2012 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER worked steadily as an accomplished the precepts of the foundation’s and award-winning actress ever since. philosophy. She became known as the “queen of the miniseries” and is well known for her starring

JANE SEYMOUR Actress, Artist, Author, Designer, Philanthropist Jane Seymour Designs Open Hearts Foundation SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 19 DAVID A. THOMPSON President & CEO TEC Equipment, Inc.

David Thompson was born in 1948 his own truck. In 1976, he launched in Syracuse, New York. He was only Thompson Equipment Company, which 15 when his father, an accounting became known as TEC Equipment, clerk, died. While in high Inc. He expanded his business over school, Thompson worked to the next decades, building TEC into help support his mother and one of the largest heavy-duty truck two younger siblings. He worked in and trailer dealerships in the United a gas station, was a junior mechanic States. Committed to helping others, at a car dealership, and then, when Thompson has given generously to he was only 18, drove an asphalt help those in need—particularly in NOMINATED BY truck. As a working truck driver, he healthcare and education. PETER W. STOTT paid his expenses while attending 2014 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER the University of Iowa, graduating in 1971. He served in the Army for the next two years, which included a tour of duty in Vietnam. In 1974, he joined Market Transport as a driver; within one year, he used his savings to buy

20 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 One of seven children, Herschel and track) and winner of the 1982 Walker was born in 1962 in Heisman Trophy. He went on to play Wrightsville, Georgia. As for the , Minnesota a youngster, Herschel was Vikings, , and overweight and stuttered. His . He is regarded as classmates harshly bullied him one of the top running backs of all and, to cope, he mentally created time. As a businessman, his H. Walker alter egos to handle situations he Enterprises include Renaissance Man found emotionally challenging. Food Services, H. Walker Foods, and Determined to change the way his Herschel’s Famous 34. In 2008, he classmates viewed him, Herschel wrote his autobiography, Breaking adopted an exercise and eating routine Free, in which he announced his NOMINATED BY in the sixth grade, which eventually diagnosis of dissociative identity DENNIS R. WASHINGTON helped him to develop his extreme disorder (DID). He regularly speaks with 1995 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER athletic prowess. As his high school groups, especially veterans, about his valedictorian, he was also awarded the battle with mental illness and shares Dial Award as the 1979 national high his life story to illustrate how he has school scholar athlete. He attended overcome his challenges. the University of Georgia, where he was a three-time All-American (football

Founder and CEO H. Walker Enterprises Former Professional Football Player HERSCHEL J.

WALKER SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 21 RONALD G. WANEK Founder & Chairman of the Board Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc.

Ron Wanek grew up poor on a farm in and Chicago-based Ashley Furniture Utica, Minnesota, where his parents Corporation into Ashley Furniture were sharecroppers. Their home had Industries, Inc. Today, Ashley Furniture no indoor plumbing or electricity. is the world’s largest furniture manu- These humble beginnings helped facturer and the largest retail furniture form Wanek’s strong work eth- store brand in North America. Highly ic, which he put to use in 1961, regarded for their philanthropic initia- working as a laborer for minimum tives, Ron and Joyce Wanek strongly wages for a furniture company—Wi- support various educational programs, NOMINATED BY nona Industries. After nine years, in including partnering with K-12 and NIDO R. QUBEIN 1970, with his knowledge, experience, post-secondary schools in STEM-based 2006 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER and newfound passion for furniture, learning opportunities, scholarships, Wanek embarked to establish his own robotics programs, and more. Wanek company. Wanek, with a small group is also the lead benefactor of Soldier’s of investors, formed Arcadia Furniture Walk at Memorial Park in Arcadia, Corporation, a small furniture manufac- Wisconsin—one of the nation’s premier turing company with 35 employees. In salutes to veterans. 1982, Wanek merged Arcadia Furniture

22 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 The son of Jewish immigrants excellent reputation for its integrity, who fled the European Nazi longevity, stability, and leadership. A invasion in 1938, George strong believer in the positive benefits Weiss grew up in Brookline, of a post-secondary education, Weiss, Massachusetts. His parents in 1987, created Say Yes to Education. worked hard but often could Currently, this organization awards not pay their home’s heating scholarships and makes available other bill. To help with family support to 170,000 students in New expenses, Weiss began bussing tables York, Connecticut, North Carolina, when he was 11. He worked his way Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Weiss is also NOMINATED BY through college, earning a degree the founder of the Orphan Disease JOSEPH NEUBAUER in economics from the University of Pathway Project, which works to find 1994 HORATIO ALGER MEMBER Pennsylvania’s Wharton School in 1965. cures for rare diseases. He has earned He founded George Weiss Associates a Seventh Degree Black Belt in Tae in 1978. Today, the highly successful Kwon Do and a Seventh Degree Black investment firm, now known as Weiss Belt in KiToshaKai, and was a member Multi-Strategy Advisers LLC, has an of the U.S. Martial Arts Team.

Chief Executive Officer/Chairman Weiss Multi-Strategy Advisers LLC GEORGE A. WEISS SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 23 24 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 MOVING FORWARD: A Blueprint for the Future

eaching for success and surmounting life’s challenges Rose said at the opening of the Board meeting, “I’m always are two characteristics shared by Horatio Alger proud to be part of the Association, but given the year Members. To make it to the top, they dedicated that we have faced, my pride is even greater. Despite the Rthemselves to realizing one goal after another. Most say immense challenges, it is an honor to say that the Horatio that the road to exceptional achievement was not without Alger Association is as strong and vibrant as it has ever setbacks—even failures—but they persevered through trials been.” with an unrelenting eye on the future. The following pages outline new directions and activities Like its Members, the Horatio Alger Association models for the Association, culminating in the celebration of its its administration on the same principles of goal setting 75th anniversary in 2022. Most importantly, the organization and the pursuit of excellence as evidenced in Blueprint for is having a tremendous impact in helping young people Excellence and Growth. This important document takes into most in need of assistance attain their educational goals. In consideration where the Association is currently operating 2020, the Association awarded $20 million in scholarships and then creates new goals that guarantee forward to 2,000 Scholars. Of the 7,000 Horatio Alger Scholars movement and development. currently enrolled in approximately 1,000 colleges and career/technical schools, 51 percent are first-generation The Association’s areas of operation include: college students with an average GPA of 3.71. They come from families whose average income is only $25,029, yet • Membership their college graduation rate is 71 percent. Their peers from • Educational Programs and Services similar economic circumstances graduate at a rate of only 16 • Public Outreach percent. The Association is making a difference in the lives • Research and Publications of these hardworking young men and women in support of • Fiscal Activities the valuable contributions they will make to society in the future. During the pandemic, the Association’s work has not faltered. The Board meeting took place on October 8, 2020, albeit virtually, and new initiatives have been enacted based on the Board’s guidance. As Association Chairman Matthew

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 25 A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE

MEMBERSHIP supporting these objectives that put youth on the path toward post-secondary education. NEW Gregory E. Abel (’18) was elected to serve as the NEW Services for Career & Technical Educational Association’s Vice President (CTE) Scholarship recipients are expanding to for a term from 2020 to 2021. facilitate networking opportunities among CTE Scholars and other Alumni in related fields. NEW The Legacy Ambassadors program Additionally, many services that are available to was developed for family members of past four-year Scholars are available to CTE Scholars and current Association Members as a way as well. Also, non-traditional support such as to further Members’ legacies, values, and licensing, technology, and child care, are now in philanthropic objectives. place for CTE Scholars to advance professional development.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS NEW Expanded offerings of Horatio Alger online AND SERVICES education webinars, which now include College Preparedness, Horatio Alger Association NEW Establishment of the Scholar Emergency Values, and Merits of Free Enterprise and Support Program. Entrepreneurship. These videos, which are free of charge to all current and new Scholars, are NEW Scholar Services Coordinators have been hired additional to the Association’s accredited online to reach out to Scholars to offer assistance courses on entrepreneurship and personal in three categories: academic, financial, and finance through the University of North Carolina, personal wellness. Wilmington.

NEW The Horatio Alger Scholarship process will NEW Alumni Summit being planned for October 13-17, change from students’ senior year to the end 2022, in New Orleans, Louisiana. of their junior year, giving them more time to become familiar with the Horatio Alger Association’s mission, Members, and services NATIONAL VISIBILITY as well as having a better understanding of the Public Service Announcements college application process. NEW were recorded by Jane Seymour (’22) and Rob Lowe HAA Future Leaders Program is a four-day NEW (’18) during the early days annual summer event in Washington, D.C., of the COVID-19 to give for 150 rising eighth graders. The curriculum encouragement to Members focuses on opportunities through the free- and Scholars. enterprise system, inspirational life stories of Horatio Alger Members, preparation of future Four-page advertorial leaders to meet the challenges of the future NEW was included in the workforce, and leadership development. October 2020 Forbes 400 issue to honor the 25 Global Summit on Education is a two-day event NEW Horatio Alger Members that brings together leaders in education, included on the list of the government, business, and philanthropy. 400 wealthiest Americans. The advertorial also Participants explore school choice, school included profiles of four Alumni Scholars currently voucher programs, charter schools, and the role seizing opportunities offered through free that corporations and free enterprise have in enterprise as they reach for the American Dream.

26 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE

NEW The Association’s International NEW HORATIO ALGER INTERVIEW SERIES: Ambassadors Mario Frangoulis, Livestreamed George Perris, and The Tenors have new venues presented by To celebrate the mission of the Horatio Alger the Horatio Alger Association Association, interviews with Members will be and streaming on PBS and livestreamed through the Association’s Against Comcast networks. the Odds biographical series. The Association initiated this series in the 1990s on PBS channels NEW The Horatio Alger Association and the programs drew critical acclaim. This re- is the presenting sponsor of the launch will: Annual National Memorial Day Concert on the steps of the U.S. • Recognize the values of hard work, Capitol. A 30-second video about perseverance, empathy, and the philanthropy the Association will play before of Members, while celebrating opportunities and after the concert. This non- available through the free-enterprise system partisan event honors active in support of the American Dream. military, veterans and their families. The event is hosted • Offer encouragement for viewers to achieve by actors Gary Sinese and Joe excellence in their own lives and seek Mantegna, who do many charity opportunities to “give back” in meaningful events that honor American and substantive ways. veterans. Colin Powell (’91) will also provide remarks • Showcase Members and during the concert. their personal stories of triumph over life’s challenges.

Hosted by Member Byron Pitts (‘17), the programs will be recorded at the homes and offices of the featured Members. Production of the new series started in early 2021, with the intent to broadcast (e.g., Bloomberg, Disney) and/or stream (e.g., Forbes, Amazon Prime, Netflix) the programs. The first episode features interviews with Daniel Lubetzky (‘19), Valerie Montgomery Rice (‘17), and Dennis Washington (‘95).

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 27 A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE

RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS what they look for when joining a nonprofit board as well as their personal philanthropic MEMBERS RECEIVE BOOK SERIES ON philosophies. NEW NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT Ongoing articles in the Association’s Investment Recently, the NEW in America’s Future series featuring information Association’s three- about Scholars, its programs, and the field of book nonprofit education. Recent articles include Longitudinal series boxed Study Among the 2017 Class of Horatio Alger set was sent to Scholars, Basic Needs Insecurity on College Members. These Campuses, and Navigating College Enrollment: books focus on A Comparative Book Review. the important role of the nonprofit sector in North American life and its relationship to the Association’s commitment to philanthropy. The three books, titled Investing in People and Communities, Governing Effective Nonprofits in the 21st Century, and Ten Traits That Make Nonprofits Great, fully explore best practices in governing and managing charities through high standards of accountability, effectiveness, Updated edition of the Association’s Quotations and transparency. Investing in People and NEW book, which includes brief bios of Members Communities includes a chapter that features and their quoted statements about success, several of the organization’s Board Members, perseverance, and advice to the younger who—in their own words—share with readers generation.

A new historical account about the Horatio NEW Alger Association titled Reaching for the Stars, HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF DISTINGUISHED AMERICANS, INC. which tracks the Association’s development

HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF DISTINGUISHED AMERICANS, INC. from its formation in 1947 to the present time.

HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF DISTINGUISHED AMERICANS, INC. The Longitudinal Study currently underway NEW focuses on the 2017 Horatio Alger National and State Scholars from their college admission to I N V E S T I N G I N PEOPLE their graduation in 2021. The study will reveal G O V E R N I N G E F F E C T I V E factors that motivate their choices regarding AND NONPROFITST E N T R A I T S T H AT college selection, course of study, and career COMMUNITIES IN THE 21ST MAKE aspirations. The results will help shape the CENTURY NONPROFITS way in which the Association uses resources to GREAT support Scholars’ academic and career success.

28 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 FUTURE EVENTS INCREASE ASSOCIATION VISIBILITY

Through Horatio Alger International Ambassadors Mario Frangoulis, George Perris, and The Tenors, the mission of the Association is spread around the world. These accomplished artists—who have their own stories of humble beginnings—share with their audiences the positive impact the Association is having on young people as they pursue their dreams through higher education. The new venues include:

Mario Frangoulis—His new concert, Blue Skies—An American Songbook, streamed May 7–9, 2021, on Comcast networks. Presented by the Horatio Alger Association, this magical performance took place at the historic Odeon of Herodes Atticus— at the foot of the Acropolis.

George Perris—His concert, A Sunset in Greece, will air on PBS stations in the fall of 2021. Presented by the Horatio Alger Association, this concert will include the song “Shine,” which Perris wrote and dedicated to Horatio Alger Scholars. Due to his own humble beginnings, Perris takes pride in partnering with the Association.

The Tenors—Once they are able to tour again, The Tenors will continue their enthusiastic endorsement of the Horatio Alger Association and its mission. They will be featured at the 2021 Membership and Board of Directors meeting this October and the 2022 Alumni Summit next fall.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 29 Annual National Memorial Day Concert is presented by the Horatio Alger Association. This spectacular event includes a 30-second video that will play before and after the concert that highlights the work and mission of the Association. The concert, which airs nationally on all 354 PBS stations May 30, 2021, from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET, will also stream on Facebook, YouTube, and at PBS.org/national-memorial-day-concert. It will be available via video-on-demand from May 30 to June 13.

A Capitol Fourth Concert—On July 4, 2022, the Horatio Alger Association will be the sponsor of America’s national Independence Day celebration, which will honor our country’s birthday with an all-star salute. Broadcast on PBS, this top-rated extravaganza features coverage from 20 cameras positioned around Washington, D.C., ensuring viewers are front and center for one of the greatest display of fireworks in the nation.

30 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 LEGACY AMBASSADORS AND FRIENDS OF DISTINCTION: Making a Lasting Difference

On the night of the Horatio Alger Awards Dinner struggles, perseverance, and ultimately their rise to and Induction Ceremony, the audience is filled a more promising future. As they listen and learn with close friends of the men and women being about the Association’s mission, and shared values recognized for their successes in life, victories over of the Members who embrace a determination to life’s challenges, and generosity in giving back to move above life’s obstacles to reach the pinnacle of their communities. success, they realize that while they may not qualify for membership, the Horatio Alger Association is The friends and associates may not qualify for an organization they would like to support through membership in the Association, but they are participation in the Friends of Distinction Program. inspired by its mission. Family members are another part of the Awards Throughout the program, they hear from new Dinner audience—the spouses (which the Members and Scholars Association terms Life Partners), as well as the sons who share their and daughters and the grandchildren of those who life stories— were honored previously, choose to return each $235 million in year to show their support for the Association, to scholarships to congratulate the incoming class of Members 35,000 students and Scholars, and to renew friendships since 1984 with other Members and their families 71% National that have grown over the years. For Scholars these attendees, many say they come graduation rate $21 million in because the program is a “shot in scholarships to (vs. 16% national the arm” of —a renewal 2,900 students graduation rate for of their belief in the American annually students from low- Dream and all this country and free income families) enterprise offer. They are proud to Our be Legacy Ambassadors.

Impact Two programs were created for Undergraduate, 51% of Scholars these special relationships with Graduate, and are first- Horatio Alger Members. The Career & generation Friends of Distinction Program Technical college students Education Scholarships 20,000+ Alumni Scholars and an active Alumni Association

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 31 includes individuals, foundations, and corporations Housing – On- and off-campus housing is made committed to the Association’s mission and values. available for Scholars who have financial limitations The Legacy Ambassadors Program is for family during spring and winter breaks. members of past and current Association Members who wish to carry forward the Member’s legacy in Career Placement – Opportunities in their field of meaningful ways that reflect their family’s values study enable Scholars and Alumni to launch careers and philanthropic objectives. and reach their full potential.

Participants in these programs may show their National Visibility Campaign – Raises public support in the following ways: awareness about the Association’s mission and programs and includes support for print and Scholarship Sponsorships – Fund an existing broadcast public service announcements, and scholarship program or sponsor a specialized secures media sponsorships for special events and scholarship program. initiatives, such as concerts, press conferences, and speaker series. Giving Clubs, to support the Association’s educational programs and operations. Giving Clubs include:

• Founder’s Club “Our father has often said $100,000 per year for five years ($500,000) that education is something • Chairman’s Club $50,000 per year for five years ($250,000) that once acquired can

• President’s Club never be taken away. The $20,000 per year for five years ($100,000) Association’s mission aligns • Director’s Club $10,000 per year for five years ($50,000) with our parents’

Endowment Fund – This separate 501 (c)(3) commitment to helping organization ensures the future of the Association’s educational programs. Through the endowment, young people through many scholarship programs are endowed in perpetuity. scholarships. We serve as

Internships & Externships – Paid internships and Legacy Ambassadors in externships enable Scholars to gain valuable work experience. Because of financial challenges, many their honor.” of our Scholars are not able to take advantage of unpaid internships & externships, like their more affluent peers. Paying Scholars for these positions JENNIFER PREWITT DICKE is one more way the Association strives to level the AND JAMES F. DICKE III (CHILDREN OF JANET AND playing field for its scholarship recipients. JAMES F. DICKE II (‘15)

32 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 MEMBERSHIP ACTIVITIES

The Horatio Alger Association is in production for a broadcast series, Against the Odds, which will feature Members and their personal stories of triumph over life’s challenges. (Left) Dennis R. Washington is being interviewed by Byron Pitts. (Right) Daniel Lubetsky and Byron Pitts are discussing the production before the interview begins.

Recently, the Board’s Executive • College Readiness Seminars. A UPDATES Committee met to discuss plans that year-long curriculum starting in the keep the Association moving forward summer of 2021 for the incoming with new programs and initiatives— class of Scholars. Topics include: FROM THE including the following: college selection and application process, time management and BOARD EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES productivity, study skills, health These newly added programs will and wellness, social skills, giving support the college graduation rate back, and financial literacy and of Scholars, engage young Americans budgeting. to become active leaders in their communities, continue the Horatio • Future Leaders Program. Rising Alger Association’s leadership role eighth graders from across the in the education sector, and serve country will spend four days as motivation to all who hear its together in the nation’s capital, message of perseverance through life’s learning about the history of challenges. The new programs include: a great nation that was built on a foundation of hard work, determination, and free enterprise. The program will provide unprecedented access to leaders Horatio Alger Association Chairman Matthew K. Rose and networking opportunities, which will be supplemented by addressed the Executive Committee recently, saying, a virtual town hall series that will “While we discuss enhancing our work and growing bring exceptional speakers into the homes of HAA Future Leaders and the Association’s impact, we can only have these their families.

conversations because of how we’ve moved through • Speaker Series “Against the Odds.” A broadcast series this past year, well-prepared and exercising sound that examines the journeys of decision-making at every turn.” remarkable individuals who have overcome challenges and led extraordinary lives.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 33 GREG ABEL ADDRESSES BOARD

Greg Abel is serving as vice president of the Executive Committee and is scheduled to become the Association’s president in October 2021. In his address to participants during the virtual Board meeting, he focused on the many educational programs and support services the Association provides to Horatio Alger Scholars. He highlighted the “whole Scholar” approach the Association takes to alleviate MEMBERSHIP AND BOARD MEETING IN 2021 challenges scholarship recipients Members, Life Partners, and Friends of the continue to face during their college Association from the United States and Canada years. Services such as the 24/7 will gather on October 6-8, 2021, at The Breakers counseling service for emotional and in Palm Beach, Florida. mental health needs, stipends for unpaid internships, and navigating college life in general, help Scholars to successfully graduate from college. At one point in his talk, Abel said, “Many of our Scholars come to us having experienced deep poverty, unfathomable loss, COMING CHANGES TO homelessness, family addiction, BOARD LEADERSHIP abuse, abandonment, and more. But our Scholars persevere, and it is how The transition of officers will take place we support and nurture them that during the Membership and Board Meeting matters most. This is what inspires in October 2021. James F. Dicke II will me. This is what makes me proud.” take over the chairmanship and Greg E. Abel will become president. The two will work closely sharing responsibilities as they guide the Association to an ever-expanding agenda. Other new transitions include Barbara Barrett, who will serve as vice president; and Mike Jackson and Chris Sullivan who will serve as members-at-large on the Executive Committee.

34 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 SCHOLAR AND EDUCATIONAL Program News

When college campuses closed due to the pandemic, financially challenged students were put in a difficult situation.

In the spring of 2020, more than 1,100 enrolled Scholars through the Scholar SCHOLARS college campuses closed due to the Emergency Support Program. Through pandemic. This action affected an the generosity of Members, Scholars COUNT ON estimated 14 million students, causing received support for housing, food, logistical nightmares for many. travel, and medical emergency needs. ASSOCIATION The majority of students were Additionally, Scholars were directed forced to return home, but for the to local unemployment services, SERVICES most financially challenged young food banks, and student financial aid people, that was not always an option. resources for further assistance. Booking flights home that they couldn’t A recent mental health study afford, waiting for refunds from their noted that college students during previous housing arrangements, this pandemic registered a 41 percent losing part-time jobs due to citywide increase in the emotions of anxiety/ closures—for those who are financially fear/worry, a 54 percent increase To date, the vulnerable, these situations were in anger/irritability/frustration, a 27 extremely difficult. percent increase in hopelessness, and Association has The Horatio Alger Association and a sense of sadness increased by 17 its Members understand challenging percent. The Horatio Alger Association disbursed more times and they reached out to Scholars encouraged Scholars to contact to help with the difficulties resulting the organization’s 24/7 support line than $200,000 in from the coronavirus. Within days of to receive free mental health, financial, the closing of colleges, universities, legal, housing, and family assistance and career and technical institutions counseling. Emergency support emergency funding. in the United States and Canada, has also been extended to Horatio the Association offered assistance Alger Alumni. to the more than 7,000 currently

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 35 Within a few hours after the learning resources. The Association has Horatio Alger Members and Life Association’s online notice about also seen a significant increase in the Partners also made extraordinary emergency support was sent to use of its 24/7 support line. To date, contributions to support a broad Scholars and Alumni, 50 requests the Association has disbursed more spectrum of relief efforts. Their concern were received. To date, nearly 1,000 than $200,000 in emergency funding. and financial assistance are deeply requests have been received for In addition to the Association’s appreciated. emergency housing, meals, travel, and efforts to help Scholars, individual

SAMPLE REQUESTS FROM SCHOLARS AND ALUMNI

I began my journey with the Horatio I was a 2019 State Scholar. I did a summer I am a first-generation, low-income Alger Association in 2004 as a Scholar program at MIT and then was accepted as college student. I was born in the from Florida. I grew up in the foster care a freshman at Harvard. My first year there Philippines, but moved with my parents system. I always understood the importance was amazing, but I started hearing rumors to Alaska when I was nine. I was attending of obtaining an education. With help from that because of the coronavirus, the campus Cornell University’s School of Hospitality my Horatio Alger scholarship, I obtained a would close down after spring break. In the Administration when the campus was degree in education and a master’s in supply last few years, my family had lost our home closed in March due to the coronavirus. chain management from Nova Southeastern and we had been experiencing a lot of Unfortunately, I did not have the funds University. With a recent financial loss due insecurity. When Harvard informed me that I to fly back home to Alaska. For the to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was faced had to move out in March, my parents were next three months, I lived in four places with hardship, and I applied for assistance living in their car. Returning home really away from campus housing, including from the Emergency Support Fund. The wasn’t an option for me. I applied to the an apartment hallway and a fraternity help that my son and I received through Emergency Support Fund and didn’t expect basement. I desperately wanted to return this program lifted a huge weight off my much, but the Association contacted me, home and when I saw the notice about the shoulders. I am a single mother and have and after several conversations, they leased Association’s Emergency Support Fund, little in the way of a family to lean on. The an apartment for me and my family and I applied for and received help with my Horatio Alger Association has given me paid a few months’ rent in advance. Now airfare to Alaska. After two months at home hope for years and I am forever grateful. my parents have time to get back on their with my parents, I have since returned to feet, and I have felt more relief from stress Cornell to continue my studies. To everyone about our situation for the first time in years. who contributed to the Emergency Fund, Currently, I am living with my parents and whether it be mentally, emotionally, or taking my Harvard classes online. The help monetarily, thank you. This appreciation is that the Horatio Alger Association has given not only for me but for the many students to me and my family has been life changing. who received this support. There are no words that can properly convey how thankful I am. I will never forget this support and one day I know—given the path that I am on now—I will pay it forward.

36 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 SCHOLAR AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM NEWS

3,��� CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION SCHOLARS SURVEYED

The Association reached out to more Survey respondents wrote about the impact the than 3,000 recipients of the Horatio CTE Scholarship has had on their lives, including the Alger Career & Technical Education following samples: (CTE) Scholarship with a survey designed to learn the impact the “Without this scholarship, I would not have been able to scholarship has made on their lives. attend school or continue my education after the sudden The survey also asked about the type passing of my husband. I am now in the last two weeks of degree they are pursuing, as well as of nursing school and I look forward to starting my their programs of study. career in a field I love that helps others.” STORMIE JENNINGS, 2016 CTE SCHOLAR Plans are underway to expand services for CTE Scholars, such as “My name is Jacobie Wilson and I am proud to be a Horatio Alger Scholar. The journey to obtain my degree has been a • Connect CTE Scholars with each long and trying process at times, but through faith, hard work other as well as Horatio Scholar and determination, I will soon realize my goal of becoming Alumni in support of professional a nurse. Without the support of those who believed in me, I development. might have given up and fallen short of my dream. The Hora- tio Alger scholarship was much more than just a way to help • Provide needed non-traditional pay for my education—it gave me confidence in myself that supports required by CTE Scholars, someone truly cares about my future. Being the father of two such as licensing, technology, and small children, I hope I can convey to them just how import- child care. ant it is to not only believe in your dreams, but also to pursue them and know that there are others out there who recognize your potential and celebrate your success. The Association has helped me to change my path in life for the better and for that I will always be grateful. Thank you.” JACOBIE WILSON, 2018 CTE SCHOLAR CTE Graduate Facts

62% 77% have increased report they 46% wages due to the earned an 19% are employed earned credential they associate in their field a diploma. earned through the degree. of study. CTE program.

35% 40% 21% earned an had a job lined secured a job industry up before they within one year of credential. graduated. graduating.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 37 SCHOLAR AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM NEWS

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE VIRTUAL NATIONAL SCHOLARS CONFERENCE

The 2020 National Scholars Association’s commitment to Scholars their own Instagram page, which Conference--held virtually--took place through the “whole Scholar” approach provides answers to questions and over the summer in three four-hour to the many programs and services offers advice. segments. offered to Scholars while in college. The National Scholars Conference After hearing from Scholar Alumnus would not be complete without Session 1: May 20, 2020 Nathan Nguyen (’04) and learning artistic presentations that further Association President Jim Dicke about his success as an author and emphasize the values of congratulated the Scholars on their financier, Scholars participated in the Association: hard accomplishments and welcomed them breakout sessions moderated by work, perseverance into the Horatio Alger Association Association volunteers. These through challenges, family. Staff members gave a brief small group sessions gave Scholars and compassion orientation to the 2020 Scholars, opportunities to ask questions and for others. Scholars which included an overview of the converse with one another as they heard from Amanda Association’s history, mission, and began to build relationships with the Gorman, the first goals. They also heard about the Association and other Scholars. As a Youth Poet Laureate of the result, the 2020 Scholar class founded United States. Amanda, who is a 2020

Screen shots captured from the virtual 2020 National Scholars Conference and the Board of Directors Meeting that was also conducted virtually last year.

38 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Harvard graduate, recited her poem Singer, songwriter, and Horatio The mailing also included the Scholar “The Miracle of Morning” about Alger Member Medallion (presented in a shadow the importance of having a positive Jewel Kilcher (’19) box) and welcome letters from Justice attitude. spoke about the Thomas and Association President importance of James Dicke. Session 2: June 18, 2020 mindfulness. Following an inspiring speech and The second Scholars Conference She concluded song from Disney’s High School Musical session opened with a welcome from her remarks with star Corbin Blue, viewers participated Vance Cryer—who, in a performance of in two 30-minute sessions on fiscal 2019, was the first several songs. management and entrepreneurship. National Scholar to This session also included remarks Association Members Daniel Lubetsky become a Member from Horatio Alger Alumna Dr. (’19), Wanda Austin (’12), and Nido of the Horatio Amy Hubbard, who gave advice on Qubein (’06) participated in a mini- Alger Association. navigating the first year of college Members Forum. Their remarks to He encouraged and hosted a panel of Alumni who the Scholars focused on their life and the 2020 class of shared their freshman college year career-path experiences. This session Scholars to fully engage with advice. Tara Cutting, the 2020 Horatio focused on themes related to the goals the Association and build long-term Alger Alumna of the Year, shared of the National Scholars Conference. relationships with Members and current her experience as a Scholar and also Dr. Qubein presided over the and Alumni Scholars. He said, “Your the positive impact on her life after closing of the National Horatio Alger family will take you on a becoming involved with the Alumni Scholars Conference, journey and offer opportunities that are Association. which included beyond your imagination.” selfie photos Association Board Session 3: July 28, 2020 from the 2020 Member Bob Prior to this session, 2020 Scholars National Scholars, Brown (’90) told received books by Justice Clarence videos of Alumni Scholars about his Thomas (’92) and visiting schools background as an Robert Brown to personally entrepreneur. He (’90), as well congratulate scholarship also shared his role as the Money recipients, and the presentation of in the Civil Rights Smarts book by medallions. Movement and offered Scholar Alumnus advice on how to stay involved in all Nathan Nguyen. levels of government.

Webinars for Scholars Scholars are—at the moment—mostly attending college remotely due to the pandemic. To supplement their online learning, the Horatio Alger Association has prepared several Scholar webinars on these topics:

• College Preparedness • Horatio Alger Association Values • Merits of Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship • American Dream These videos, which are free of charge to all current and new Scholars, are in addition to the Association’s accredited online courses on Entrepreneurship and Personal Finance through the University of North Carolina in Wilmington.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 39 SCHOLAR AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM NEWS

Scholars can now reach out to Horatio Alger Scholar Services Counselors for help with issues, such as financial aid, mental health, and time management.

Horatio Alger Scholars are among the and—now—the Scholar Emergency OUTREACH most promising young people in the Fund. In fact, the Emergency Fund United States and Canada. They have served to reveal that some Scholars faced a multitude of challenges, but are experiencing a variety of problems TO they continue to pursue their dreams. that make them feel overwhelmed and They want to improve their chances for on their own to find solutions. As a SCHOLARS success through education—and they result, the Association recently hired are willing to put forth great effort to four Scholar Services Counselors to transform their dreams into realities. reach out to students who appear to REAPS But getting into college doesn’t make be struggling and at risk of dropping their challenging situations magically out. Through texts, emails, and phone UPLIFTING disappear. In fact, college can present calls, they reach out to Scholars in a whole new set of circumstances for those situations, asking if they would which Scholars are unprepared. like to talk with one of the Counselors RESULTS The Association offers many about these issues. In most cases, the services to Scholars to help them Scholars are eager to have someone while in school, including financial aid with whom they can explore ways to counseling, 24/7 access to ComPsych, overcome their challenges.

40 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 SCHOLARS SERVICES COUNSELORS: ON THE FRONT LINE

The Services Counselors concentrate Spanish international students. “At through challenges and graduating on academics, financial aid, and Horatio Alger,” she explains, “we are is the end goal. Whatever I can do to personal wellness. Regardless of working to assist Scholars in getting make that happen is a real privilege.” how many issues the Scholars are to that graduation finish line—and we Melissa D’Mello facing, the Counselors help them to do it step by step. There is no one is the Services understand the problems and come up standard formula for student success. Counselor with plans to solve them. As a result, we have to learn about for Canadian each Scholar’s specific circumstances Scholars. She COMMON ISSUES so that we can connect him/her to the graduated most appropriate resources.” from McMaster • Information gap. As many Scholars Annika University with an are first generation college students, Sampedro, a Honours Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Counselors spend a lot of time University of Science of Languages and English explaining how to apply for financial Richmond with a Minor in Psychology. She is aid, how and when college loans must graduate, is a currently enrolled at the University be repaid, financial aid appeals, and Scholars Services of Fredericton for her MBA. “Being how the whole college process works. Counselor. a Scholar Services Counselor is both She developed a an exciting and rewarding experience • Time management. Some Scholars mentoring program at as I get to work with all our Canadian need help setting short- and long-term her university and also worked with an Scholars, and support them on their goals. AmeriCorps program called College post-secondary journey. I am truly in Possible. She explains that some awe of our Scholars’ accomplishments • Managing trauma. Scholars who Scholar cases are a quick fix, but others and determination to pursue their have experienced traumatic events are more complicated. “I might have a dreams.” might need to set up long-term student who is overwhelmed because counseling. she has to work, assist with family WHAT IS THE IMPACT? members, find affordable housing, • Food and housing insecurities. write a paper, and the list goes on and All the Scholar Services Counselors These have especially been issues on. Rather than dealing with all issues give an enthusiastic “yes” when throughout the COVID pandemic with at once, we try to break things down, asked if they feel they are making a campuses going to virtual learning. which gets her through the moment difference. They relate how grateful until we can find better long-term the Scholars are to hear from the SCHOLAR SERVICES solutions to the bigger issues.” Association and to know that Members COUNSELORS Scholar Services care about their progress. Many Counselor Kianna Scholars say that this service has “This is one of the Rollins is a motivated them at a time when they most rewarding graduate of the were on the verge of giving up. To positions I have University of date, the Counselors have assisted ever had,” says Virginia and a more than 1,300 of the 7,000 Scholars Services Counselor former counselor currently in school. Counselor Katie Katie Cordova, with the Virginia Cordova sums it up by saying, “I like to who received her College Advising Corps. “I feel think of our job title as Scholar Success undergraduate degree honored to be a part of this program Coordinators because that is what in education from the University of that is helping Scholars to reach we are attempting to do—helping North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her their full potential. Like so many of Scholars to be successful college master’s in education from Harvard. the Scholars, I was a first-generation students.” She is also a Fulbright Scholar who college student from a low-income has worked for the U.S. Department family. I understand that getting into of State as a college counselor for college is just the beginning; working

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 41 CANADA

FIVE MINUTES WITH... David Johnston

Inducted in 2018, David Johnston, the former Governor General of Canada and now the chair of the Rideau Hall Foundation, serves the HAAC as vice president

urrently, David Johnston is charged with the management of the HAAC’s Five-Year Strategic Plan. CIn a recent interview with The Forum, he shares his views on the impact the Horatio Alger Association has had on In his role as Governor General of Canada (2010-2017), The Right Canada and other important organizational developments. Honourable David Johnston engages with members of the Royal Mounted Police. The HAAC’s Five-year Strategic Plan calls for expansion of Scholar services, especially in the areas of mental health and career mentorship. Tell us more about how that Scholars can tap into in addition to our partnership the HAAC is pursuing these two services. with ComPsych, which offers 24/7 counseling and referral Recently, my office brought to my attention a startling services. statistic. From 2007 to 2017, a pre-pandemic time period, emergency visits related to mental health concerns for Another key area we are working to develop is our Canadians between the ages of 5 to 24 increased by 75 mentoring options for Canadian Scholars. We have percent. We all know that the pandemic has brought with partnered with MENTOR Canada for career advice, it stressors that have, I’m sure, increased our mental health exploration, and networking opportunities. We have issues even more. The HAAC has partnered with Active received many emails from our Scholars and Scholar Minds, a nonprofit organization that supports mental health Alumni telling us how much they have appreciated awareness and education for students through on-campus this service. chapters throughout North America. They have resources

42 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 CANADA

The Emergency Fund that was established this year by As a nation, it is our hope that over the course of the Horatio Alger Association in response to the COVID the next 10 to 15 years, we have 10,000 indigenous pandemic was also greatly appreciated by the Scholars. graduates with a degree in education. If we accomplish One 2020 Scholar said she was barely in her freshman that, we could eliminate the education gap currently in year when she received an email asking if she needed place for that portion of our population. That would be help. She said that she was told being a Horatio Alger quite an achievement. Scholar made her part of a family, but she didn’t really understand what that meant until she got that email. What is the impact the Horatio Alger Association has made on Canada? The HAAC has recently developed Indigenous For Canada, the Horatio Alger Association has been a Achievement scholarships. What can you tell us about breath of fresh air. The Horatio Alger philosophy and the importance of reaching out to this particular mission reinforce Canadian culture and has given us portion of the Canadian population? an opportunity to celebrate and put a light on some of To my mind, this is the population that faces the greatest our most significant leaders who overcame obstacles to obstacles. I think this is where Canada needs to be much achieve positions of leadership. It has also reinforced more responsive and empathetic. It is where we need to the sense for those who have achieved a position of build trust. The most fundamental gap for indigenous leadership a responsibility to give back and help others. young people is their education opportunities. It is difficult to attract and keep good teachers on the The Horatio Alger Association is very good at preaching reserves. While the HAAC encourages indigenous young equality of opportunity. It not only helps young people, it people to apply for any Horatio Alger scholarship, the reaches out to find scholarship recipients who have faced Indigenous Achievement scholarship is offered to those the most formidable obstacles—and then it helps them who want to seek the noble profession of teaching. We in innovative ways. The scholarships are important given have partnered with Indspire, which identifies indigenous the rising costs of higher education, but the mentorship, youth as young as grade school, looking for those who the counseling, the internships, and the Whole Scholar have an interest in teaching. They provide mentorship services—in particular mental health support—work and some financial assistance. The HAAC Indigenous together to better ensure success. Achievement scholarship currently offers five $5,000 awards per year. Canada is a sparsely populated country with a very large geography with harsh climate and distances. Through necessity, we have become a collaborative society—and that’s what Horatio Alger is. Programs like Collegiate Partners and Scholar services that treat the Whole Scholar give them tools they can use while “The three working toward graduation. This is what sets the Horatio Alger Association apart from other scholarship-granting characteristics that organizations. There are three characteristics that are important to are important to a a healthy society: trust, hope, and empathy. Through collaboration, we come to understand that we are healthy society are trust, stronger together. Hope is a sense of optimism that the future will be better. I think of hope as a verb—meaning to roll up your sleeves. Empathy is walking in someone hope, and empathy.” else’s shoes—and then walking together to actually do something about our problems. Our American counterparts share these characteristics with us as we work to develop and expand our programs and services.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 43 CANADA

Horatio Alger Association of Canada: PLANS FOR EXPANSION

The Horatio Alger Association • Transfer program administration • Create an Alumni Association. of Canada (HAAC) celebrated its to Canada. The HAAC has hired two The HAAC has established an Alumni 10th anniversary in 2019. Today the staff members—a Canadian manager Advisory Committee that will reach organization, which has a total of of Scholars and Alumni Services and out to Canadian Scholars and Alumni 16 Members--with one more poised a Scholar Services Counselor. Both interested in developing this important for induction in 2022--is flourishing. possess expertise in secondary and organization. Once Canadian college Guided by a five-year strategic plan, post-secondary education, scholarship campuses fully reopen, the HAAC will the HAAC is working on the following programming, and assisting students develop on-campus Scholar/Alumni areas of development: with adverse childhood experiences. groups. The HAAC is also expanding • Increase funding. To be partnerships to help with their mission. • Create a mentorship program. accomplished by inducting multiple The most recent partnerships are with The HAAC’s partnership with MENTOR Members per year, recruiting more MENTOR Canada (career guidance) Canada connects post-secondary Friends of Distinction, launching a new and Active Minds (mental health students with potential mentors endowment campaign, and increasing services). from a variety of companies and annual Members’ donations for employment sectors. With monthly scholarships and Giving Clubs. • Increase visibility. To be online mentorship events, more than accomplished through the Excellence 50 Canadian Scholars have already • Expand Scholar support services. Gala, media relations and public engaged with one or more of MENTOR In addition to what is currently relations initiatives, and partnerships Canada’s offerings. available to Scholars, the HAAC that help to expand the HAAC’s reach. is partnering with organizations to expand networking opportunities— especially in career mentorship and mental health supports.

44 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 IN TRIBUTE In Tribute

The following are Members and Life Partners who have passed since the previous issue of The Forum. We remember them for their contributions to society and to this organization. They believed in our mission, and we are grateful for their words of wisdom, their mentorship, and their participation. Their quotes—those words by which they most wanted to be remembered—tell us what is most important, how best to move forward, and how to get the most out of life. We celebrate their lives and extend our sympathies to their families and friends.

“Everyone has special gifts “Be enthusiastic, determine to “Most people have an inner from God. The challenge is to succeed, and love your country.” person that holds the keys to use those gifts well—on the their social, leadership, and CARLOS J. ARBOLEYA 1976 field and when the game President relationship performances.” is over.” Barnett Bank of South Florida LOUIS C. BROCK 2002 President 1978 HENRY L. AARON Brockworld Products, Inc. Hall of Fame Player

Special Tribute Since his induction in 1980, Dr. Haggai helped to lead the Association, serving at various times as a Vice President, a Member of the Board for 38 years, co-chairman of the Nominating Committee for 20 years, Class Coordinator of his fellow inductees from 1980 “The only way any of us can outlive our days upon and all previous classes, Awards Ceremony this earth is to invest in the next generation. I believe emcee from 1988 to 1995, and moderator of in our youth, and the Horatio Alger Association is a the Members Forum from 1996 to 2016. The wonderful way for me to express that.” Association was proud to present Dr. Haggai with the Norman Vincent Peale Award in 2001 THOMAS S. HAGGAI 1980 in appreciation for his dedicated service and Chairman commitment to its mission. IGA Inc.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 45 IN TRIBUTE

“Don’t second guess yourself, or “Reading is the key to education, “Tap into the inner drive you will start doubting your to getting ahead, to having a that is born from diversity, ability to succeed.” bigger life.” and persevere through your mistakes.” HERMAN CAIN 1996 MARY HIGGINS CLARK 1997 Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Author 2008 Godfather’s Pizza, Inc. JOSEPH CLARK Board Member 2009-2020 Chairman Aviation Partners Boeing Chairman & CEO Aviation Partners Inc.

“There are no shortcuts to “Perfectionism abhors error; “The resiliency of the human success. You have to be prepared tries to eradicate it and destroy spirit is no less present in for the opportunities that come it. Excellence embraces error, one walk of life than another. your way.” builds on it and transforms it.” We must all find the most meaningful measure of success 2013 RICHARD H. DRIEHAUS FOSTER STEPHEN FRIESS 2012 Founder and Chairman Board Member 2015-2021 for ourselves, and then set out to Driehaus Capital Management LLC Founder and Retired Chairman exceed our own expectations.” Friess Associates LLC

J. BARRY GRISWELL 2003 Board Member 2004-2012 Chairman, President and CEO The Principal Financial Group

46 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 IN TRIBUTE

“There are no entitlements “I haven’t worked a day in my life. “If your goal is to make money, in life. You get rewarded for I love what I do.” then you will never achieve that what you do.” goal. Your goal has to be, to DUANE B. HAGADONE 2004 Founder, President, and CEO 1997 be successful; and, if you are JOHN F. GRUNDHOFER The Hagadone Corporation Board Member 1998-2021 successful in your field, you will Chairman, President, and CEO First Bank System make money.”

RANDALL DEE HUBBARD 2014 Board Member 2015-2020 Chairman, Managing Director BIGHORN Golf Club

“I try to bring out the best in “The great thing about sports “Make God a part of your people, to teach them that they’re and athletics, and everything life—not something you tack bigger than they think they are.” in life, is that you make the onto it.” most of what you have at the ARTHUR E. IMPERATORE, SR. 1982 FREDERICK K.C. PRICE 1998 Chairman of the Board and President time and don’t let the moment Pastor & Founder A-P-A Transport Corporation go without being the best that Crenshaw Christian Center you can be.”

RAFER L. JOHNSON 1981 Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist Founding Member, Special Olympics Southern California Vice President, Community Affairs Continental Telephone Service Corporation

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 47 IN TRIBUTE

“Friends come and go, but “Success is built around “Aim high and give it everything families are forever.” perseverance. Never accept you have to make it work. If you the facts that allow you to pursue excellence relentlessly, KENNY ROGERS 1990 Singer/Entertainer retreat.” you can have peace of mind and Kenny Rogers Productions succeed at anything.” JOHN FRANCIS SANDNER 1998 Chairman DON SHULA 1995 Chicago Mercantile Exchange Inc Head Coach

“For me, success is to remember “Take advantage of the “If there is such a thing as the and respect your promises.” opportunities that come your right stuff, it is experience.” way, and make education a ANTHONY J. TERLATO 2006 CHARLES E. YEAGER 1986 Chairman lifelong process.” President, Yeager, Inc. Terlato Wine Group Brigadier General (Retired) United States Air Force MICHAEL W. WRIGHT 1999 Board Member 2000-2010 Chairman and CEO, Retired SUPERVALU INC. Life Partners

VIRGINIA CLEMENTS (WIFE OF W.W. “FOOTS” CLEMENTS ‘80) FRANCES MAGUIRE (WIFE OF JAMES J. MAGUIRE, SR. ‘15) HILDA ANDERSON (WIFE OF CHARLES C. ANDERSON, SR. ‘15)

Special Tribute James R. “Jim Bob” Moffett served as President of the Horatio Alger Association from 1993 to 1995, and was Chairman from 1995 to 1998. In 1990 he initiated the James R. Moffett Special Assistance “Learn how to do something better than anyone else. Program, giving Scholars $500 each year Work hard and stay clean, and the success you want to help with incidental expenses—as long will be automatic.” as they wrote him a letter about their lives and studies. In 2000 he was the recipient JAMES R. MOFFETT 1990 of the Norman Vincent Peale Award—the Horatio Alger Association Chairman Emeritus Chairman of the Board and CEO Association’s highest honor. Freeport Mc-Mo-Ran Inc.

48 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 THE FRIENDS OF THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL marked the 75th anniversary of the Allied victory over Japan and the end of World War II in the Pacific with a special tribute MELLODY HOBSON in September 2020. Members of Friends’ WWII 75th Anniversary Honorary Committee INTERVIEWED include Tom Brokaw (’07), who offered remarks at the event.

Mellody Hobson (’17), in a recent interview by the Economic Club of New York, said, “There’s been a lot of ‘try’ around diversity in corporate America, but trying isn’t enough. This past summer, Hob- son talked to 35 chief executives about how they could and should step up hiring of racial minori- ties. The president of Ariel Investments, Hobson went on to say, “But it’s not just a moral issue — it’s a financial one, too. Countless studies have shown that companies with a more diverse set of voices and perspectives in the boardroom outper- form their peers. In order to be a world class com- pany, you need to have diverse people around the table ... it’s more about realizing shareholder value for our investors.” Her comments followed an announcement from Nasdaq that it is pushing for greater diversity at the board level of the more than 3,000 companies listed on its exchange.

DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MEMORIAL IN WASHINGTON, D.C.,

The formal dedication of the Dwight D. The St. Louis Sports Commission Eisenhower Memorial in Washington, D.C., presented Hank Aaron with the 2020 Stan took place at the site on Independence HANK Musial Lifetime Achievement Award for Avenue in September 2020. The celebration sportsmanship. The prestigious award featured remarks from Association Mem- AARON* recognizes iconic sports figures who bers Condoleezza Rice (’10) and Robert Receives the exemplify sportsmanship and embody Dole (’88). Dwight Eisenhower, the Supreme qualities of generosity, excellence, and Commander of Allied Forces in Europe 2020 Stan civility. The late Stan Musial, who was a during World War II and the 34th President Baseball Hall of Famer, became a Member of the United States, became a Member of Musial Lifetime of the Horatio Alger Association in 1991. the Horatio Alger Association in 1961. Achievement Hank Aaron, also a Baseball Hall of Famer, was inducted into Award the Association in 1978.

*Unfortunately, Hank Aaron passed away in January 2021. He is honored in The Forum’s “In Tribute” section in this issue.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 49 RAGS TO RICHES THE D.J.’S HERO STORY NOW AWARDS LUNCHEON

AVAILABLE The D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon is an annual event which honors Nebraska high school seniors who have overcome adversity Ed Hajim’s (’15) memoir, On the Road Less and made an impact on their Traveled, was published recently, which details school and community. Each his “unlikely journey from the orphanage to the boardroom.” At the age of three, he was honoree receives a $10,000 college kidnapped by his father and scholarship named in remembrance driven cross country. He was of D.J. Sokol, son of Peggy and David Sokol. D.J. told his mother was dead. His battled cancer until his death at age 18, showing life journey took him from one dire situation to the courage in his struggle and exhibiting a deep next. But this is more than concern for others. a story of survival, as Hajim outlines what he believes to be the keys to success. A quote from Hajim on the book’s cover has a lot to say about perseverance through difficulties: “A bend in the road is not the end of the road.”

The Sokol family (l to r): Kelly, Peggy, David, and D.J. MONROE TROUT The scholarships are awarded during a large-scale springtime luncheon event held in downtown RECEIVES HONOR Omaha and headlined by a nationally known keynote speaker. The event enters its 23rd year in 2021. Over the two-decade-plus run of this unique event, 171 Hero Awards scholarships have been conferred upon

Dr. Monroe Trout (‘95) recently received the Winston deserving students. Churchill Medal for Leadership, the highest honor awarded by America’s National Churchill Museum. The award was given for Dr. Trout’s community service and contributions in the fields of education, health care, and the art world. This award honors those who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in the spirit of Winston Churchill. Other Churchill Fellows include Margaret Thatcher, U.S. Presidents Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson, J.C. Penney, Walter Cronkite, Senator John Danforth, and David Rubenstein.

Peggy and David Sokol at a University of Nebraska football game with Ken and Annie Bird. Ken Bird serves as President/CEO of Avenue Scholars in Omaha, and he and his 50 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 wife are serving as Award Chairs of the 2021 D.J.’s Hero Awards Luncheon. THE CREATION OF A DELTA SANCTUARY NEW DICKE HALL Dino Cortopassi (’05) created a nature preserve AT TRINITY in 1992, which was featured recently in the Lodi, California, paper—the News-Sentinel. He began UNIVERSITY converting 350 acres of prime farmland into a wetlands habitat (now known as “The Black Hole”), which later was expanded to 750 acres. Over the past 25 years, the Cortopassi Family Recently, Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, Foundation / Wetlands Preservation Foundation broke ground on Dicke Hall, which will house has created a successful model of long-term the Humanities Department. Both Jim and Janet Dicke attended the school as undergraduates. Delta sustainability, combining for-profit Today, Mrs. Dicke serves as a trustee and Mr. agriculture and wildlife-friendly practices. Dicke is a trustee emeritus. The Dickes have invested in their alma mater over the years, giving of their time and financial commitment to various scholarship funds, campus buildings, the arts, and other initiatives that will continue to shape Trinity’s future. As a student, Jim Dicke served as his class president and earned a B.S. in business adminstration, while Janet Dicke earned a B.A. in elementary education. Both graduated from Trinity University in 1968.

TOP AWARD BESTOWED CELEBRATING BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP

To honor the achievements of African Byron Pitts (’17), the ABC News Chief American entrepreneurs, Forbes featured— National Correspondent and Nightline during Black History Month in February— co-anchor, recently received the Paul those who have made major contributions White Award from the Radio Television to America as founders, investors, Digital News Association. The Award activists, celebrities, and more. The article, was presented in an online “Inspired titled “Black in Businesses: Celebrating by Excellence” conversation between the Legacy of Black Entrepreneurship,” the association’s executive director and featured famous actors, sports figures, Byron Pitts. and business owners/founders--including Horatio Alger Members Oprah Winfrey (‘93), and David Steward (‘14).

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 51 SOCIAL MEDIA ROUNDUP

I’ve been involved with @horatioalgerassociation for a number of years and proudly hosted its Evening of Achievement event at @kennedycenter in 2018. I am excited to share with you and truly honored to have been selected as a 2022 #HoratioAlgerAward recipient. I look forward to continuing to work with the Association to support young people with the resources needed to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams through higher education! #HoratioAlgerMember.

JANE SEYMOUR | @janeseymour Horatio Alger Member

Thank you to the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans for showing me that I’m not SOCIAL alone and giving me a family that never ceases to inspire me. I am excited to officially be an Alumni of the Association and a positive role model for young students who have walked in my shoes and persevered in the media face of adversity. I am hardy, resilient, and proud of the woman I have become. Each day, I am grateful for my ROUND UP past because it has prepared me for the path ahead and shaped me into the change maker I am today. Let us take this next step together with open arms. It’s undeniable—we are living in the age of social media. And over the past two years, the Association’s presence on SARAH BEDOR | @sarahbedor1 social media has grown significantly, as we’ve strategically Horatio Alger Alumna made efforts to meet our Members, Life Partners, Scholars, and Friends on the social platforms where they choose to spend their time.

It is heartening to see the connections made, the positive comments shared, and heart-warming posts that fill our feeds on a daily basis. And while impossible to capture it all on these pages, in each upcoming issue we plan to share social media highlights via these channels.

There are 3 members of @HoratioAlgerUS in this photo, and 3 people who are dedicated to High Point University Thank you to the @horatioalgerassociation for lessening and the success of our students! the financial burden through my college journey. It is motivating to have an organization believe in me so much that they are willing to invest $10,000 into my education. HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT NIDO QUBEIN (’06) I am grateful for this scholarship and to become part of a WITH ROBERT BROWN (’90) AND BYRON PITTS (’17) | community filled with so many inspiring people. @HoratioAlgerUS Horatio Alger Members NAZIRA CISE | @nazira_cisse Horatio Alger State Scholar

52 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Honored to be featured by @HoratioAlgerUS in their recent @Forbes article. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of this incredible association and its generous members. Looking forward to putting their investment to work in residency and beyond.

DR. AUSTIN KAZARIAN | @AustinKazarian 2010 National Scholar 2017 Washington Leadership Graduate Scholar

As a way to highlight and introduce the newest additions to the #HoratioAlgerFamily, each Friday during the month of July, we will be featuring one of our incredible 2020 National Scholars using #FridayIntroductions. Today, we welcome @jonahmar.22:

Hello, I’m Jonah Martinez and I am from Denver, Colorado. In the fall, I will be attending @bostoncollege studying film and design! As I get to know my #HoratioAlgerFamily, I want to share a few facts about myself. In high school, I created an art magazine for the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (@mca_denver) and ran varsity cross country. I love volunteering and have over 400+ hours in community service. After college, I plan to go into the IT software career field. Lastly, I am first generation (wooo-wooo)!

JONAH MARTINEZ | @jonahmar.22 @horatioalgerassociation I am extremely grateful to be a part of the Horatio Alger Association of Horatio Alger Scholar Distinguished Americans! It is truly an honor to be one of the 600 scholars out of 40,000 applicants in the U.S., and to receive $10,000 towards attending UNC-Chapel Hill. I am very excited to start this new chapter in my life and I’m thankful for all the people who have encouraged me along the way. #horatioalger #horatioalgerscholar #horatioalgerassociation #uncchapelhill WANT TO SEE MORE?

@horatioalgerassociation MARILEE COMBS | @marilee_combs Horatio Alger State Scholar @HoratioAlgerUS

@HoratioAlgerUS

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 53 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

JOSHUA FORSYTHE ’19 NATIONAL SCHOLAR, OHIO

Sophomore, Lake Erie College

I am sincerely thankful to have been a scholarship recipient of the Horatio Alger Association, which has helped me achieve my lifelong dream of attending college. Thanks to the generous financial support towards my education, my dream is becoming a reality at Lake Erie College (LEC), where I am double majoring in criminal justice and psychology with a minor in coaching. The kindness and assistance of the organization have allowed me to purchase textbooks, pay fees, and cover some of the costs of tuition. This will continue to give me an opportunity to concentrate on my studies and not be distracted because of a lack of finances. The scholarship has truly eased my mind and my financial burden. As I continue my education at LEC, I will continue to remember how positively the Association Members and scholarship have impacted not only my college life, but my future. The Members have my gratitude for their vote of confidence. I will do all I can to make them proud of me.

MANUEL RETANA ’13 STATE SCHOLAR, NEVADA ’18 DENNIS R. WASHINGTON LEADERSHIP GRADUATE SCHOLAR

’20 M.S. in Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering Civil Engineer, NASA Johnson Space Center

Following my graduation from the University of Nevada in Reno, where I majored in mechanical engineering, I attended graduate school at Stanford. Getting to Stanford was a difficult journey, but paying for that world-class education would only be possible with the support of the Horatio Alger Association and the Washington family. My Horatio Alger scholarship gave me hope to continue my dream of going to college to study engineering at a time when I felt I would never be able to afford higher education due to my economic hardships. After attending the Scholars Conference and meeting other young people like me, I developed a feeling of belonging. The Scholars had also struggled in life, but they were determined to make their dreams come true. It gave me hope. I have attended Alumni Summits and other Horatio Alger–sponsored events and now feel I am part of something much greater than myself. Recently, with the help of Member Dino Cortopassi (’05), I was able to meet my NASA idol, Mexican-American astronaut Jose Hernandez. I have had the honor of working for NASA since 2016 as a NASA Pathways Intern. This fall, I achieved my goal of being hired in a full- time position as a NASA Aerospace Engineer Civil Servant at the NASA Johnson Space Center. Without the Horatio Alger Association, I would not be where I am today.

54 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 PAOLA BASQUEZ ’12 STATE SCHOLAR

High School Math Teacher Reno, Nevada

My Horatio Alger scholarship helped me to reach my dream of becoming a teacher. I am appreciative of the Association’s support through resources and networking opportunities, which have helped me grow professionally. I had the honor of volunteering at the 2019 National Scholars Conference, which was an incredible experience for me. I especially loved listening to the Scholars share their plans for the future. Currently, I teach math at a high school in Reno, Nevada. I earned my bachelor’s degree in mathematics education in 2016 from the University of Nevada, Reno, where I also achieved a master’s degree in educational leadership in 2018. I am passionate about student activities and the positive impact they have on the overall school climate and culture, which is why I am the student council advisor at my school. I also serve as the Western Region Executive Director of the Nevada Association of Student Councils. This enables me to work at the state and national level with students who aspire to make this world a better place. I am working my dream job and am excited to help young leaders pursue their dreams.

ELEXIE FRANCIS-PRESOD ’17 CANADIAN SCHOLAR

Senior, York University

I am double majoring in psychology and biology. I worked as a research student at the Hospital for Sick Children, but the study I was working on was put on indefinite hold due to COVID restrictions. The Horatio Alger Association has had a big impact on my life—especially during these uncertain times. Overall, my scholarship has reduced my financial stress and allowed me to focus on achieving my educational goals. But the Association also came to my rescue with the Emergency Support Fund, which helped me to pay my rent after I was laid off. That financial stability offered in a time of insecurity was very appreciated. My goal is to be a neurologist, so my plan for the future is to attend medical school after my York University graduation.

The Horatio Alger Association is proud of its lifelong relationships with its scholarship recipients. This column gives us updates on older Scholars, revealing what they are doing in their careers and the positive impact their scholarship has had on their lives.

SPRING 2021 | THE FORUM 55 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS

Our Impact

U.S. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS CANADIAN SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS National Scholarships are awarded annually to approximately 106 The National Entrepreneurial Scholarship provides $10,000 each to five high school seniors, representing all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico. students annually. These students attend the aforementioned National National Scholars receive $25,000 toward their college education and Scholars Conference in Washington, D.C., where they fully participate recipients are selected based on academic achievement, involvement in with their American peers. school and community activities, and confirmed financial need for college Nationwide Canadian Scholarships are awarded to approximately tuition assistance. In addition, applicants are required to write an essay 80 students annually, valued at $5,000 each. In 2019, the number of re- describing how they have persevered through adversity in pursuit of cipients expanded to 200. Scholarships are available to students in every their goals. Recipients attend the National Scholars Conference, held Canadian province and territory. each spring in Washington, D.C., in tandem with the Horatio Alger The Fairfax Financial Entrance Awards, sponsored by V. Prem Watsa Awards Induction Ceremonies. (’12), are valued up to $24,000 each and are awarded to 34 students at State Scholarships are awarded annually to approximately 700 22 select Canadian universities. students in the amount of $10,000. These scholarships are supported by individual Members, Friends, the Endowment Fund, and the Association. INDIGENOUS ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS The National Career and Technical Scholarship Program was found- provide five $10,000 scholarships awarded in partnership with Indspire. ed by Walter Scott, Jr. (’97). This nationwide program benefits students This proogram is for Indigenous students starting a four-year post-sec- seeking technical degrees and career certification at community colleges. ondary program in the fall. Specialized Scholarship Programs are administered by the Association on behalf of Members who have specific requests, such as named high school districts or colleges. The Dennis R. Washington Leadership Scholarship Program is funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, providing support for graduate education to both National and State Alumni Schol- ars. Each scholarship is valued up to $120,000 in support of master’s or doctoral degree programs.

$235 MILLION $20 MILLION to 35,000 students awarded to 2,000 awarded since 1984 71% students in 2020 HAA NATIONAL SCHOLARS 20,000 GRADUATION RATE 51% Alumni Scholars of Scholars are first- generation college students 16% NATIONAL LOW-INCOME GRADUATION RATE

56 THE FORUM | SPRING 2021 Future Events

NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT MAY 30, 2021 SPONSORED BY THE LEADERSHIP OF THE HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION AND BROADCASTED BY PBS

75TH HORATIO ALGER AWARDS APRIL 7 – 9, 2022 THE RITZ-CARLTON | WASHINGTON, D.C.

2022 NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT MAY 29, 2022 SPONSORED BY THE LEADERSHIP OF THE HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION AND BROADCASTED BY PBS

2022 A CAPITOL FOURTH CELEBRATION JULY 4, 2022 SPONSORED BY THE LEADERSHIP OF THE HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION AND BROADCASTED BY PBS

2022 MEMBERSHIP & BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OCTOBER 2022 HOSTED BY ERNEST RADY & T. DENNY SANFORD FAIRMONT DEL MAR | , CALIFORNIA

EXCELLENCE GALA OCTOBER 5, 2022 HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF CANADA FAIRMONT ROYAL YORK | TORONTO, ONTARIO

ALUMNI SUMMIT OCTOBER 13 – 16, 2022 WORLD WAR II MUSEUM | NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

76TH HORATIO ALGER AWARDS MARCH 30 – APRIL 1, 2023 THE RITZ-CARLTON | WASHINGTON, D.C.

2023 INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP & BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING HOSTED & SPONSORED BY MR. AND MRS. PAUL ANTHONY NOVELLY FALL 2023 | FRANCE AND MONACO HORATIO ALGER ASSOCIATION OF DISTINGUISHED AMERICANS, INC. 99 CANAL CENTER PLAZA, SUITE 320 | ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314 TEL: (703) 684-9444 | FAX: (703) 548-3822