May 21 2003 – The Friends of Virgin Islands National Park proudly announces the winners of its 2003 scholarships for students majoring in environmental studies at University of the Virgin Islands. St. Croix resident Leia LaPlace, who attends UVI on St. Thomas, has been selected for a second scholarship. St. Thomas resident Sean Richardson will also receive a scholarship to UVI.
LaPlace will receive $1,000 toward her final year of a five-year program with a double major in marine biology and business administration. Richardson is also entering his final year at UVI, where he also majors in biology, and will receive $1,000 toward his academic studies. In addition to the financial award, both students will have paid internships with the Friends of V.I. National Park for the summer.
"Both Leia and Sean are terrific academic students, and we are proud that they have been chosen as Friends' scholarship recipients," said Joe Kessler, president of the organization. "The scholarship is a key part of our effort to help develop the future conservationists of the Virgin Islands."
To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have V.I. residency and must have completed high school in the territory; must have completed all prerequisite coursework for majors in biology (with an emphasis on environmental studies) or marine biology; must have maintained a "B" (3.0) average through the first three semesters in school.
The Friends of Virgin Islands National Park is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural and cultural resources of Virgin Islands National Park. As the official private sector partner to the park, the Friends raises funds from individuals, corporations and foundations to supplement the Park's federal budget.

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