Mitchem named scholarship finalist

A senior at Sedgwick High School was named as a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist. John Raymond Mitchem was selected by the staff of The American Legion Kansas Boys State which was held at Kansas State University in Manhattan on June 1 through June 7.

In making the announcement the selection officials said Mitchem was named a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist on the basis of academics, school and community involvement, and financial need.

As a national finalist Mitchem will join 99 other finalists from around the United States each competing for one of ten scholarships, each scholarship worth an expected $20,000.

The Samsung American Legion Scholarship funds come from the earnings of a $5 million endowment given by Samsung. Samsung, in recognition of the sacrifice and commitment of United States servicemen and women who served during the Korean War to maintain the security of the Korean peninsula, joined with The American Legion to offer an educational opportunity to the descendants of war-time veterans who have served honorably.

The president and chief executive officer of Samsung North America, Dong-Jin Oh, said Samsung wants to recognize “the sacrifices and commitment of U.S. servicemen and women. We believe this is the best way to show our appreciation to the United States and to U.S. war veterans.”

Members of The American Legion Kansas Boys State selection committee said the selection process was difficult. The applicants were some of the best-qualified students in the state and the competition was keen.