Ashtynn N. Masterson
Ashtynn N. Masterson, a sophomore education major from Jasper, Indiana is one of 31 outstanding first-generation students being recognized for “Realizing the Dream.”
The students and the mentors who most encouraged these students to seek a college degree will be honored in Indianapolis on Saturday, Nov 6, 2010. Masterson’s former teacher from 5th Street Elementary School, Kristy Dilger, will join her at the banquet.
Made possible by a grant to the Independent Colleges of Indiana from the Lilly Endowment, “Realizing the Dream” recognizes the triumphs of first-generation students in their first year of college. The student honorees are Indiana high school graduates who subsequently demonstrated superior academic performance during their first year of studies and exhibited leadership in campus or community activities. A $2,000 grant will be mailed to the institution to be deposited into the student’s account and applied toward the cost of his/her education.
“Realizing the Dream” also celebrates the roles played by teachers and parents in shaping student aspirations for a college education. After being chosen by their college, the students then named the elementary or secondary teacher or counselor who most influenced them to attend college. These mentors will each receive a $1,000 professional development award.
In addition to the students, parents and teachers, the banquet will host special guests, presidents of the colleges and the campus coordinators of the “Realizing the Dream” program.