In addition to the excellent educational options available in Ankeny, Dennis and Susan Albaugh have established the Prairie Trail Scholarship Program to assist Ankeny students in
furthering their education.
The scholarships are available to Prairie Trail residents, high school students in Ankeny-area schools, and teachers in Ankeny. The number of available scholarships is announced each fall and scholarships are awarded in May. A committee of individuals from DRA Properties and Des Moines Area Community College Foundation, which manages the scholarship fund, selects the winners based on written essays and applications.
The scholarship program was established through the generosity of Dennis and Susan Albaugh, who donated the initial $100,000. Additional money is generated by a ½ of 1% fee on the transfer of all real property within Prairie Trail, which will allow the fund to become self-sustaining as homes begin to sell and transfer ownership over the years.
Dennis Albaugh received his degree from DMACC's Ankeny campus. He explains, "I am a firm believer in giving Ankeny's children support as they go on to pursue their dreams. The Prairie Trail Scholarship Program is designed to accomplish just that."
And it's one more reason people come home to Prairie Trail.
Prairie Trail Scholarships
Prairie Trail Residents. High school seniors living in the Prairie Trail neighborhoods are eligible for $2,500 scholarships, with a lifetime maximum award of $10,000. Preference is given to students planning to attend an Iowa institution.
Ankeny Students. High school seniors enrolled in an Ankeny school are eligible for $1,000 scholarships, with a lifetime maximum award of $10,000. Preference is given to students planning to attend an Iowa institution.
Ankeny Educators. Mini grants of up to $2,500 are available to educators from an Ankeny school awarded to enhance a teacher's classroom activities and equipment.
2008 Prairie Trail Scholarship Recipients
Graduate, Ankeny High School
Kaitlyn Dorrlacombe, daughter of Judith Dorr & David LaCombe, plans to attend the University of Iowa and major in International Business. She currently holds a job at Jordan Creek Mall. Her hobbies include teaching volleyball and cheerleading camps along with helping disabled children.
Graduate, Ankeny Christian Academy
Zach Deo, son of Leslie & Robert Deo, was 1st in his class and scored a 30 on his ACT. He plans to help his father around their farm until school starts in the fall. He plans to attend Northwestern College. He is undecided on a major, hesitating between Accounting and Engineering.
Graduate, Ankeny High School
Robert Martin, son of Tim & Sheryl Martin, enjoys spending his time being an eagle scout and helping his church. He is the 1st person from his family to go to college. He plans to attend University of Northern Iowa and major in Social Sciences and English Education.
Graduate, Ankeny High School
Janae Finnestad, daughter of Deb & Scott Finnestad, is active in the Big Brother Big Sister program, and currently holds three jobs. She plans to attend University of Iowa and major in communication with a focus in broadcasting.
Graduate, Ankeny High School
Amy Zrostlik, granddaughter of Mary Jo Manley, has been involved in dance for 11 years but sadly had to quit to work so she could support herself. She plans to attend DMACC and major in Journalism.
For more information or an application:
www.prairietrailankeny.com or www.dmacc.edu/foundation
