EHS’s Wagner selected as 2021 Horatio Alger National Scholarship winner
Published 3:24 pm Friday, February 5, 2021
Photo Contributed Out of tens of thousands of applicants, Dylan Wagner, a Elizabethton High School student was one of just 106 students from across the country to receive a 2021 Horatio Alger National Scholarship for $25,000.
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BY IVAN SANDERS
STAR STAFF
ivan.sanders@elizabethton.com
Many young people always dream of what they want to do when they graduate from high school.
Some want to be lawyers, doctors, business leaders, and even professional athletes. For some those dreams come true and for others, they fall by the wayside.
Elizabethton High School’s Dylan Wagner has a dream also.
“I really love math and I want to major in math and teach,” said Wagner. “I am looking at either going to Milligan or UT.”
Wagner recently got a boost to reaching his goal when he was selected as one of 106 students from thousands across the country to receive the 2021 Horatio Alger National Scholarship — one that will put $25,000 toward his pursuit of teaching.
“I applied for the scholarship,” said Wagner. “It is for low-income families. It’s really going to help out.”
The scholarship recognizes students who have remained committed to continuing their education and giving back to their communities while overcoming great personal adversities and navigating the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Awarded scholars come from households with an average income of $18,871 per year yet maintain an average GPA of 3.88.
In addition to the $25,000 scholarship, when it is safe to do so, they will travel to Washington, D.C. to meet their fellow Scholars and the Horatio Alger Members who fund the scholarship programs — prominent civic, corporate, and cultural leaders including Rob Lowe, Reba McEntire, Jewel Kilcher and more.
Winners of the scholarships will also have access to a variety of Association-provided resources including counseling and referral services, career exploration opportunities, and Alumni connections.
“Our 2021 National Scholars affirm the Association’s belief that hard work, honesty, and determination can conquer all obstacles,” said Terrence J. Giroux, executive director, Horatio Alger Association.
“Through our mission, we will continue to provide promising young people the resources, mentorship, and confidence needed to be successful in whatever it is they choose to do.”
The Horatio Alger Scholarship Program is wholly funded through private donations from Association Members and friends.
Currently, Wagner is ranked one out of 208 Elizabethton High School seniors.
