Naperville High School Student Named National Finalist for Samsung American Legion Scholarship

June 26, 2012

          Naperville, June 26, 2012 – A senior at St. Francis High School (Wheaton, IL) was named as a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist. Samantha Hilger was selected by the staff of American Legion Illini Girls State which was held at Eastern Illinois University in June 2012.

          In making the announcement of the selection officials said Hilger was named a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist on the basis of academics, school and community involvement.

          As a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist, Samantha Hilger will join 99 other National Finalists from around the United States each competing for one of twelve scholarships, each scholarship worth an expected $20,000.

          Samantha Hilger is very involved in her school and community. Hilger is a co-captain of her school’s Swim Team and a member of Track and Field. She is on Student Government and is a member of her school’s Student Ministry Team. Hilger is a teen advisor on Naperville’s Board of Commissions for the Disabled and a teen leader for Edge in her church. Hilger hopes to attend Eastern Illinois University and she plans to major in Special Education.

          The Samsung American Legion Scholarship funds come from the earnings of a $5-million endowment given by Samsung. Samsung, in recognition of the sacrifice and commitment of United States servicemen and women who served during the Korean War to maintain the security of the Korean peninsula, joined with The American Legion to offer an educational opportunity to the descendants of war-time veterans who have served honorably.

          Hilger’s Grandfather served with the Air Force during the Korean War. The President and Chief Executive of Samsung North America, Dong-Jin Oh, says Samsung wants to recognize “the sacrifices and commitment of U.S. servicemen and women. We believe this is the best way to show our appreciation to the United States and to U.S. war veterans.”

          Members of the American Legion Illini Girls State selection committee said the selection process was very difficult. The applicants were some of the best-qualified students in the state and the competition was keen.

For Additional Information please contact:

Samantha Hilger, 630-637-4357

2151 Oak Court Naperville, IL 60565