Vestal Resident Receives $5,000 Wal-Mart Scholarship

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- David Bohnsack, a University at Buffalo freshman from Vestal, is appreciating the academic challenges of his first year at the university without the financial concerns many students face. He has been named by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., as the recipient of a $5,000 Wal-Mart Competitive Edge Scholarship.

Totaling $20,000 over four years, the scholarship is awarded to an exceptional freshman majoring in a technology-related program. Competitive Edge Scholarship recipients, chosen by UB's University Honors Program, are selected based on outstanding academic performance and financial need.

A chemical engineering major, Bohnsack said the Wal-Mart Scholarship will allow him "to plan further ahead, without the burden of paying student loans immediately after completing my studies at UB. Winning the scholarship is a pleasant affirmation that other people are concerned with, and have an interest in, my education."

Bohnsack graduated with a 96.6 grade-point average from Vestal High School outside Binghamton. He was involved in various school activities, including the marching band; varsity swim team, for which he served as captain; National Honor Society, and the Science Club. He also was active in his church as a choir member and member of the youth council. Additionally, Bohnsack was a member of the Boy Scouts, serving as troop chaplain and a member of the troop patrol.

Created by Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, the Competitive Edge Scholarship honors students pursuing careers in technological fields, including aerospace, computers, biotechnology, electronics and telecommunications. The scholarship is renewable based on Bohnsack maintaining a 3.0 grade-point average, and will cover the cost of tuition and books, as well as help pay for room and board.

Bohnsack praised Wal-Mart for recognizing the need to provide opportunities for students to achieve their academic goals.

"The very fact that Wal-Mart offers a scholarship shows that corporations appreciate the importance of education," he said.