Two rising juniors from Polk County and Landrum High Schools will attend the Clemson University Summer Scholars Program this year through scholarships awarded by the Tryon Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW).
Allessandre Ponzini, a Polk County High School student, and Sarah Ford, a Landrum High School student, received this year’s scholarships to attend the summer program.  These students were recognized by their teachers and administration for excellent academic performance.
Ponzini, granddaughter of Taylor and Sandra Christiansen of Tryon, is involved with school plays, is an avid reader, creative writer and enjoys drawing and photography.  She will participate in Multi-media Journalism during the week of June 8 – 14.  Ford, daughter of Mike and Dawn Ford, is involved in her church youth, TLC, Interact Club, Beta Club, soccer, tennis and piano.  She will participate in Bioengineering during the week of July 20-26.
For over 20 years the Tryon Area Branch of AAUW has provided full scholarships to deserving young women from both Landrum and Polk County schools for one week at Clemson University’s Summer Scholars Program.  In addition to challenging courses, these scholarships provide opportunities for hands-on learning and early exposure to the college experience.
The AAUW hopes this opportunity will challenge and expand the vista of these gifted young women.
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is a nationwide network of more than 100,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 500 college/university institution partners.
AAUW’s mission is to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.
For AAUW membership information, contact Gretchen Boyd at 859-6643.

– article submitted
by Beth Laughridge