The Missouri State Foundation held an event April 28 to recognize the achievements of outstanding students with scholarships and to honor the benefactors who give to scholarships.

During the 2009-10 academic year, more than $958,750 was awarded to 821 Missouri State students through donor-funded scholarships.

Junior criminology major and psychology minor Jasmine Kemp was among the students who expressed gratitude for support she has received.

“The scholarship is very important to me, because it shows me I’m not in this by myself — that my family is not the only one who wants me to succeed in school and throughout life,” Kemp said. “I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be one of the many recipients of these scholarships. On behalf of the students, I really want to thank all of the donors because you still keep giving to others. Your generosity and care help support the education endeavors of others.”

Missouri State is a great value — tuition and fees are below the average for public colleges in Missouri, and room and board rates are among the state’s very lowest. Even with these notable financial attributes, more than 75 percent of Missouri State students are eligible for financial assistance.

To address this need, Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State University, is focused on growing scholarship opportunities. By achieving its overall goal of raising $20 million for student scholarship assistance, Missouri State will continue its dedication to developing educated, enlightened and ethical persons.