Government, education and public service scholarships available

JOEL DAVIDSON/Frontiersman reporter

Pegge Begich, chair of the Nick Begich Scholarship Intern Fund, announced today the call for 2005/2006 scholarship and internship/fellowship applications for Alaskans pursuing degrees or, for internships/fellowships, service in education, government, and public service.

One $2,000 scholarship, renewable for up to four years, will be awarded to the highest-scoring applicant. Three $1,000-1,500 scholarships will also be awarded. Separate smaller awards may be considered for deserving candidates.

Any Alaska resident pursuing a degree in education, government or public service is eligible to apply. The fund will also appoint up to two six-month interns/fellows. The appointments are available to Alaska residents over age 21 who are seeking to experience direct service in the selected fields. Internships may be located in Alaska or Washington, D.C.

"Over the past two years our interns/fellow recipients have made significant policy advancements in their chosen fields. They have set a high standard that we think will make a difference in our society," Begich said. "Begich fellows focus on substantial partnerships with a number of Alaskan and national entities that will also provide meaningful career opportunities for those interested Alaskans who receive them."

The Nick Begich Scholarship Intern Fund was created in 1977 by friends and family of the late U.S. Rep. Nick Begich, D-Alaska. Since its inception, the fund has provided more than $190,000 in support of Alaskan interns.

Begich's plane disappeared on a flight from Anchorage to Juneau on Oct. 16, 1972 while he was campaigning for re-election to the House of Representatives. House Majority Leader Hale Boggs, D-La., was with him. Begich's aide and the pilot were also aboard the twin-engine Cessna 310, which was never found.

Scholarship and internship applications may be requested by writing one of the addresses below.

Eligibility requirements are detailed on the application forms. Those interested must request either the scholarship or internship application form. Applications will be accepted by e-mail or U.S. mail and must be sent and postmarked no later than April 6, which would have been Begich's 73rd birthday.

Applications received after that date will not be considered. Award winners will be announced May 31. All application documents must be submitted in one packet and sent to one of the following addresses: E-mail: cwrecord@alaska.net; U.S. mail: Nick Begich Scholarship Intern Fund, Attn: Tom Begich, executive director, P.O. Box 142711, Anchorage, AK 99514-2711.

Questions about scholarships and internships may be addressed to Tom Begich and sent to the above e-mail or postal address.