Fannie Mae Napolitan Endowed Scholarship in Education

SCHOLARSHIP BACKGROUND

The Fannie Mae Napolitan Endowed Scholarship in Education was established in 2006 by Drs. James and Sandra (Mock) Napolitan '60 through a personal gift and matching funds from Lilly Endowment, Inc., to honor Fannie Mae Napolitan, Jim's mother. Fannie Mae has been a life-long advocate of education, with a passion for reading and literacy programs. She earned a bachelor's degree in Religious Education from Baptist Missionary Training School. In midlife, she earned a master's degree in Education from the University of Illinois and became a Title One reading specialist. Fannie Mae's many accomplishments include the award of Charlotte County (Florida) Teacher of the Year in 1982. She currently resides in Port Charlotte, Florida. Dr. James Napolitan has served on the Franklin College Board of Trustees since 1997 and has been a trusted leader and dedicated friend of the College. Dr. Sandra (Mock) Napolitan is an alumna of the Class of 1960 and one of several generations of family members who have attended Franklin College. Fannie Mae Napolitan's love of learning will serve as a legacy to generations through the Fannie Mae Napolitan Endowed Scholarship in Education. Through this award, Franklin College students will be prepared to serve as teachers dedicated to literacy and the joy of reading, and through the efforts in the classroom, countless children will touched by Fannie Mae's legacy.

SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTS

The Napolitan Endowed Scholarship will be awarded to a student pursuing a degree in education. First preference will be reserved for a student interested in reading and literacy programs for challenged youth; second preference will be reserved for students returning to college after life hiatus to pursue an undergraduate degree in education with intent to focus on one of the above areas of study; and third preference will be reserved for students interested in early childhood education. The scholarship may be renewed annually, provided the student maintains good academic standing and continued financial need. The award will be coordinated by the office of financial aid in consultation with the education department.