U of U announces new scholarship for valedictorian, salutatorian graduates

SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah announced a new scholarship Monday for valedictorian and salutatorian graduates of all public or private accredited high schools in Utah.

University officials say the Guarantee Scholarship could potentially offer aid to nearly 700 students.

“With this award, we believe we can get close to, for a valedictorian, close to 90% of what we expect they would need to pay for tuition and fees at the University of Utah,” said Steve Robinson, associate vice president of enrollment management.

The Guarantee Scholarship will be awarded to any valedictorian and salutatorian graduate, who is a first-time freshman at the university. The scholarship winners must also be residents of Utah.

Valedictorian graduates will receive $8,000 annually for four years for a total of $32,000. Salutatorians will receive $6,000 annually for four years for a total of $24,000. The scholarship recipients must maintain a full-time student status. They must also maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and maintain their status as a Utah resident.

“We are pleased to offer this scholarship opportunity to the most academically talented high school students in the state,” said Taylor Randall, University of Utah president in a press release. “They have worked hard to be at the top of their class and this guaranteed scholarship can help them continue their education at the state’s flagship institution.”

Additionally, the scholarship winners will be given a one-time $1,000 award after they reach their sophomore year. This award can be used to continue their academic objectives in programs such as study abroad or to conduct research.

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