FLORENCE – State Rep. Jamie Kiel remembers his days as a fledgling student in need of a “hand up” to chase his goal of a four-year college degree after graduating from
Northwest Shoals Community College.
With that in mind Kiel, who graduated from the University of North Alabama in 1997 with a B.S. in Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Service, spearheaded efforts in the state Legislature to secure $25,000 in funding for 25 scholarships for students from Colbert and Franklin counties.
The scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each are merit- and needs-based and are designed to help incoming freshmen to UNA.
“The Alabama Legislature provides community service grants to schools and education
programs,” Kiel said. “I can’t think of a better use of these funds than to help local students
pursue their college dreams. In 1995, when I was an incoming transfer student to UNA, I did not qualify for traditional scholarships or financial aid. However, (then-President Dr. Robert) Potts provided me with a $500 scholarship to help me further my education.
“Thinking back on how I didn’t qualify for financial aid has made me realize that some students simply need a ‘hand up,’ not a handout. My hope is that these 25 scholarships will provide that ‘hand up’ to students from Franklin and Colbert counties who will go on to be successful, tax-paying citizens in their communities.”
Kiel was elected in 2018 and serves the 18th District of Alabama, which includes
large parts of UNA’s primary service area.
“UNA’s alumni are doing incredible things across our region, state, and country,” UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts said. “Representative Kiel’s gift to future UNA students will ensure that we continue to graduate individuals who are well-educated and well-prepared to enter the workforce.”
For more information, visit www.una.edu and www.una.edu/unaworks/
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