Clemson University names 13 National Scholars

Published: March 29, 2011

CLEMSON — Clemson University has selected 13 students to join its National Scholars Program, the university’s most competitive academic scholarship program, in the fall 2011 semester.

The scholars were chosen after a rigorous selection process that included reviews of Calhoun Honors College applications, individual and small group interviews, a large group decision-making seminar and a writing exercise.

National Scholars receive a four-year scholarship covering tuition and fees and extensive opportunities to enhance their educational experiences through study travel, specialized courses led by top faculty and dedicated mentoring.

“We received a record number of applications for the Calhoun Honors College to review this year, and this is the most thoroughly vetted group of National Scholars recipients ever,” said Jamie Williams, associate director of the National Scholars Program. “Year after year, we continue to be impressed how remarkable each group of finalists is in terms of their achievement and potential in leadership, service and intellect.”

He said this fall’s class of National Scholars has an average SAT score of 1515 and an average high school GPA of 4.76.

The new scholars are:

• Brittany Avin of Greenville, N.C., who will major in genetics;
• Rachel Boland of Lexington, special education;
• Jessica Feltracco of Cumming, Ga., biological sciences;
• Tommy Healy of Winston-Salem, N.C., mechanical engineering;
• Olivia Keane of Richmond, Va., pre-professional health;
• Matthew Miller of Elon, N.C., chemical engineering;
• Kelly Moran of Wasilla, Alaska, mathematical sciences;
• Paige Pribonic of Hudson, Wis., language and international health;
• Michaela Reinhart of Charlotte, N.C., biochemistry;
• Jim Turner of Raleigh, N.C., mechanical engineering;
• Medha Vyavahare of Easley, bioengineering;
• Lisa Watkins of Atlanta, Ga., environmental engineering; and
• David Zhang of Mount Pleasant, bioengineering.

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