The Yosemite Scholarship Commission would like to announce the availability of three scholarships for seniors graduating in June 2008. The Yosemite Community Scholarships are sponsored by the Yosemite Employees Association, the Yosemite Rotary Club, the Yosemite Lions Club, and the Yosemite Winter Club.

Two of the scholarships are for $2,000 over two years for attending a four-year college or university. The third scholarship is $1,000 over two years at a community college. In existence since 1934, the Yosemite Scholarship Commission is supported by the Yosemite and El Portal communities. Only one application is necessary to apply for all three scholarships.

Students eligible for the scholarships are any high school graduating senior whose parent or guardian is employed on a year round basis in Yosemite National Park or the El Portal Administrative Site. Employment must be for no less than six months per calendar year and for at least one year prior to the time application is made.

More than just an academic scholarship, the following items are taken into account in making the selection: scholastic ability, financial need, leadership ability, community participation, and general aptitude.

There is no particular significance in the order nor does one qualification have any special weight.

Further information and applications may be obtained from Mariposa County High School, Yosemite High School, Tioga High School, or from Jan van Wagtendonk, or Linda Eade. Applicants must attach a copy of their current high school transcripts to their application and send the application and the transcripts to the Yosemite Scholarship Commission at PO Box 313, El Portal, CA 95318. Applications will be accepted until May 15, 2008.

Jan van Wagtendonk (209) 379-2668

Linda Eade (209) 372-0280