ThanksUSA Alumna Michelle Spradlin

With the assistance of ThanksUSA scholarships totaling $9,000, Michelle Spradlin earned her degree from Tennessee Wesleyan College in 2012. Over the years, she has represented ThanksUSA scholars at outreach events and even contributed to this year’s ThanksUSA Treasure Hunt 9. Michelle is happy to share the following update with fellow ThanksUSA Alumni and Friends:

Michelle & Eddie Spradlin

ThanksUSA has helped me fulfill more than my educational goals. During my husbands first deployment to Iraq, I was led to make a career change. I had worked in banking all of my adult life, but my calling was to work in the educational field.

ThanksUSA helped support me financially as I attained my degree to become a teacher. This is my second year in the classroom and I have the privelege of substituting for two long-term materninty leaves in the same grade. Actually, the classrooms are next door to each other. Some of the students I am working with this year, I had last school year in ESL and/or Math Intervention, which has been very helpful.

At the beginning of this school year, I was disappointed that I had not been hired to be a full-time classroom teacher, but it has worked out in my favor. My husband has recently returmed from the Share Initiative Program in Atlanta, Georgia. We are learning to make adjustments he needs to “really live” with PTSD, TBI and long term back issues. Working in the school system also allows me to be on our daughter, Kiley’s schedule, which I am very grateful for.

A way that Kiley and I have found to be able to cope with my husband’s injuries is to serve others. We have always spent time together doing mission projects at home. However over Christmas break, we went on our first international mission trip to Orphanage Emmanuel in Honduras. Not only was it an eye opening experience for a thirteen year old, but it was for me too.

Michelle with mission team

Kiley reading to her friend Maria

Kiley & Maria

Michelle in Honduras

I am grateful my husband is recovering from war related illnesses, we have each other, a home and live in a safe country. As my husband continues to improve, my daughter and I are planning to spend more time at the orphanage. This summer, I will volunteer to teach English in the orphanage school. I am currently taking the last college class needed to be a certified ESL (English Second Language) teacher.

Someday, I pray that my husband will be able to travel with me to do more international missions and perhaps adopt children. We always wanted more children, but due to deployments and his injuries, we were unable. I believe knowledge is power and having a formal education has fulfilled my dreams of being a teacher, being on our daughter’s schedule, to be home more than I was with my previous employer, and to be able to serve others. I am very thankful for ThanksUSA. It has allowed me to try to become the person that I want to be.

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Support #ThanksUSA this #GivingTuesday!

Today is #GivingTuesday and ThanksUSA has joined with thousands of non-profits around the country to celebrate this national movement dedicated to celebrating giving and volunteering.

Together we can support the men and women of the U.S. military by providing their families with the gift of a college scholarship.

Give The Gift of Gab

Donate your Facebook status or Tweet – tell your friends about how you support military families with ThanksUSA
Follow ThanksUSA on social media
Twitter – @ThanksUSA
Facebook /ThanksUSA
Share your #unselfie on social media – Take a pic, tag it #unselfie #givingtuesday and #ThanksUSA and upload it to your social networks.

Help us give a gift that will last well beyond the holiday season.

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Congratulations MaKenna Arrigo!

Congratulations to Marine Corps spouse and ThanksUSA scholar MaKenna Arrigo! Earlier this year, with the assistance of a $3,000 Blavatnik Family Foundation/ThanksUSA scholarship, MaKenna completed her Psychology studies at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, earning Cum Laude honors.

Although her husband, Sergeant Christopher Arrigo, USMC, was deployed at the time, MaKenna’s mother, Marilyn Hughes, and her grandfather, Michael McDonough were in attendance to support their graduate.

“It was the one of the happiest days of my life and also one of the most emotional as I wished my late father and my deployed husband could have been there.”

The military has always been part of MaKenna’s life. Her grandfather served in the Army during the Korean War and her father, CWO Robert Buotte, dedicated over 28 years of service to the Coast Guard before his unexpected passing in 2010.

Now that she has earned her BA in Psychology, MaKenna has been busy making plans for graduate school. Ultimately, she would like to pursue a career as a social worker within the military community.

“As both a military child and spouse, I want to thank the supporters of the ThanksUSA organization from the bottom of my heart. The support from this organization has given me a chance to achieve an undergraduate college degree and now set my sights higher to a masters degree.”

.The ThanksUSA team congratulates MaKenna on her academic accomplishments and wishes her continued success with her graduate studies. In the coming weeks, Scholarship News readers will be introduced to the new 2013-2014 ThanksUSA scholarship recipients, so be sure to check back often.

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Congratulations Allia Grace Martinez!

Congratulations to Navy dependent and newly commissioned Air Force officer, Allia Grace Martinez! Receiving a total of $9,000 in ThanksUSA scholarships, this amazing scholar recently earned her B.S. in Biomedical Sciences, graduating from the University of South Alabama with Cum Laude honors.

Graduation day served as an exceptionally memorable day as Allia Grace was also commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Her family shared in her commissioning by pinning on her bars, while the first salute was rendered by her father, CSC Alfredo Dyune Martinez, U.S. Navy (Ret).

ThanksUSA supporters may recognize Allia Grace and her family from previous Scholarship News blog posts. Thanks to gracious contributions from Lockheed Martin, the Blavatnik Family Foundation, Goldman Sachs Gives, Charity Works, and Military Connection, Allia Grace and her brothers, Aljo Victor and Alden David, have received ThanksUSA scholarships totaling $15,000!

The entire ThanksUSA team congratulates Allia Grace on her accomplishments and we wish her well as she trains for her Air Force career in Space and Missiles. We also extend our thanks to the Martinez family for sharing this special day with ThanksUSA supporters!

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“We as a family would like to, once again, express our gratitude to ThanksUSA and all the grantors who make it possible for students like our daughter finish college. Your time and generosity are greatly appreciated. We will never forget your kindness to our family. May God bless you all abundantly.”
Sincerely,
Dyune and Amy Martinez

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3rd Annual Stephen Curry ThanksUSA Golf Tournament

Stephen Curry Pays it Forward After Golden NBA Season with ThanksUSA
NBA star inspires major contribution to military families from The Ron Conway Family

McLean, Va. – After finishing a spectacular year on the hardwood, NBA superstar Stephen Curry will once again raise funds and awareness for ThanksUSA, a national non-profit that provides need-based scholarships to the children and spouses of active-duty military personnel. Serving as the charity’s national spokesperson since 2010, Curry will host the third annual Stephen Curry ThanksUSA Golf Tournament on September 23, 2013, in San Francisco at the Presido Golf Course.

New to the event in 2013, ThanksUSA and Curry are pleased to welcome The Ron Conway Family as a major sponsor for this year’s golf tournament. The 25-year-old gained national fame this season as he propelled the Golden State Warriors through the early rounds of the NBA playoffs and set a NBA single-season record with 272 three-pointers.

Stephen Curry and his father, Dell Curry, at the 2012 Stephen Curry ThanksUSA Golf Tournament

“After a memorable season for myself and my teammates, I hope to inspire that same kind of dedication and teamwork through ThanksUSA to help our military families reach their potential, too,” said Curry.

“Having benefited from a college scholarship myself, I know how important it is to receive the gift of education. I am excited to welcome The Ron Conway Family to this event and am looking forward to another great golf tournament.”

“Stephen energized our state and basketball fans across the country with his performance on the court this year,” said Ron Conway, an active philanthropist and technology industry angel investor at SV Angel who has funded countless startups, including Google, Facebook, Twitter, Square, and Pinterest. “Stephen is a natural leader, and the Conway family is proud to work alongside him and ThanksUSA to show our appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military families.”

The Stephen Curry ThanksUSA Golf Tournament will bring together Mayor Ed Lee, Curry’s father and former NBA standout, Dell Curry, and several of Curry’s Golden State Warriors teammates, as well as other sports and entertainment VIPs, members of the military, local community leaders and corporate representatives at the Presidio Golf Club, 300 Finley Road, San Francisco, Calif.

For more information about sponsorship or participation, please contact ThanksUSA Executive Director Michele Stork at (703) 855-4108 or MicheleStork@ThanksUSA.org. For media inquiries, please contact Alyssa Romano at alyssa.romano@octagon.com.

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About ThanksUSA:
Founded in the fall of 2005, ThanksUSA, a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization, is an effort to thank the men and women of our armed forces and their families for their service to the country with the gift of education. The organization provides need-based, post-secondary education opportunities to the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel through need-based scholarships. For more information, visit www.ThanksUSA.org.

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Tennis Thanks the Troops Campaign

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Tennis Thanks the Troops 2013

 

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 17, 2013

A Win for Military Families as ThanksUSA and U.S. Professional Tennis Association Partner to Provide Scholarships

Champions Lisa Raymond and Bob and Mike Bryan Join the Team

McLean, VA, 17 May 2013 – ThanksUSA and the U.S. Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) are gearing up for their second annual Tennis Thanks the Troops fundraising campaign to support scholarships for the children and spouses of U.S. service men and women. With May recognized nationally as Military Appreciation Month, the two organizations will be recruiting the country’s USPTA Professionals, clubs, players and tennis fans in organizing tournaments and other special events to raise funds throughout Memorial Day weekend.

Tennis stars Lisa Raymond and Mike and Bob Bryan have returned for a second year to support the effort by participating in public service announcements promoting Tennis Thanks the Troops.

“Global combat operations are ending but the mission of our troops – to protect our nation and our freedoms – persists. As does our responsibility to continue supporting them,”said Bob Okun, chairman and CEO of ThanksUSA. “We are proud to thank our armed forces and their families for their daily sacrifices through the gift of education.”

ThanksUSA provides need-based, post-secondary scholarships to the children and spouses of active-duty personnel across all the Armed Forces, the National Guard and Reserves, as well as families of the fallen and wounded.

“Clubs with USPTA pros are developing creative events that will help ThanksUSA award 500 scholarships worth $1.5 million this year, helping make U.S. military families the real winners,” said Michele Stork, executive director of ThanksUSA.

Throughout Memorial Day weekend, May 25-27, participating USPTA Professionals at various facilities will collect a minimum voluntary donation of $5 from tennis players, professionals, members, guests and fans to support ThanksUSA. Facilities will have flexibility on their donation-collection options, including choosing among tournaments/contests, lessons and silent auctions, and can also hold fundraising events on other weekends throughout the year.

“There’s certainly a lot of attention on supporting those initiatives that help our troops of late and rightfully so,” said USPTA CEO John Embree. “As an association, we intend to do our part using pros who are community-minded and want to show their dedication to the military by making a valuable contribution to those efforts.”

Leading the charge are the San Diego District Tennis Association through its annual Tennis Fest and the Berkeley Hills Country Club in Duluth, Ga., with a Tennis Thanks the Troops Memorial Day Mixer. All participating facilities will be competing to raise the most money for the campaign, with the winner able to send their pro and one guest to the US Open in New York on Aug. 30.

For more information on the Tennis Thanks the Troops campaign, visit the Tennis Thanks the Troops webpage. Join the team and show your gratitude to our military men and women and their families!

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About the USPTA: Founded in 1927, USPTA strives to raise the standards of the tennis profession while promoting greater awareness of the sport. USPTA offers nearly 70 professional benefits to its more than 15,000 members worldwide, including certification and professional development. With more than 300 days of educational opportunities throughout the year, USPTA offers the most comprehensive continuing education program in the tennis industry. For more information, call 800-877-8248 or visit www.uspta.com.

About ThanksUSA: ThanksUSA is a non-partisan, charitable effort to mobilize Americans of all ages to “thank” the men and women of the United States armed forces. The organization provides college, technical and vocational school scholarships for the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel. For more information, visit www.thanksusa.org.

CONTACT:
Poornima Rimm, Director of Public Relations
USPTA
713-978-7782, ext. 125
Poornima.Rimm@USPTA.org

Michele Stork, Executive Director
ThanksUSA
703-855-4108
MicheleStork@ThanksUSA.org

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Military Appreciation Monday to benefit ThanksUSA

MILITARY APPRECIATION MONDAYS

Supports ThanksUSA

A great group of Virginian business owners hosts a monthly dinner to raise funds for organizations that support our beloved military. This month, ThanksUSA is honored to be the chosen organization for May’s Military Appreciation Monday.

Make your reservations now for dinner on Monday, May 13th, at The Old Brogue in Great Falls. Seatings will be at 5:30 and 7:30, and no donations is necessary…just enjoy a delicious dinner while supporting ThanksUSA’s mission!

Bob Nelson of Keller Williams Realty in Great Falls speaks about this wonderful fundraising effort:

“We have been doing monthly dinners at the Old Brogue in Great Falls, Va. for the past five years. These started out as small events with 10-15 of our friends and have now grown to attracting anywhere from 80-140 people. About 80 percent of attendees are our regulars while the other 20 percent are first time attendees. Most of the money raised is through our regular cosponsor donations. Myself and these cosponsors each make a ten percent donation based on what you spend for dinner. We also conduct a door prize drawing. Our typical match comes in at between 150-200 percent of the total dinner tab.”

So don’t delay – call The Old Brogue at (703) 759-3309 to make your dinner reservation and print out this flyer to share with your neighbors and coworkers:

Our sincerest appreciation to Bob Nelson and these generous business sponsors:

The Old Brogue

Gary Kaihara, DDS

Double Eagle Title

Blue River IT

Al’s Towing and Storage

Taylor Allgyer – First Savings Mortgage

James Gaudiosi – Atlantic Coast Mortgage

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Raise a Racquet in Support of ThanksUSA!

San Diego Tennis Fest

To help ThanksUSA and the USPTA kick off “Tennis Thanks the Troops,” the San Diego District Tennis Association (SDDTA) will hold it’s annual Tennis Fest on Sunday, May 5th.

Holly & SGT Lam Le, USMC

In 2012, USPTA clubs around the country hosted events and collected donations for ThanksUSA scholarships during Tennis Thanks the Troops. Since SDDTA raised the most ($3,350), they were awarded two tickets to the U.S. Open. Always supportive of our military heroes, SDDTA presented the tickets to Wounded Warrior U.S. Marine Corps SGT Lam Le and his wife, Holly.

If you’re in the San Diego area, you can help SDDTA compete for those 2013 U.S. Open tickets! The first 800 pre-registered participants will receive a 2013 Tennis Fest T-shirt and a welcome bag, so register today at www.sandiegotennis.com and help SDDTA win those Tennis Thanks the Troops U.S. Open tickets! Click the flyer below for more info:

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Now Accepting Scholarship Applications

ThanksUSA is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2013-2014 academic year. Completing a scholarship application may seem like a daunting task, but it’s really just a matter of providing the requested information. A complete overview of this year’s scholarship program can be found here, but the following can help get you started:

Tips For Completing The ThanksUSA Scholarship Application

• Carefully read through the entire application. Be sure to fill it out completely and accurately. Proofread your application and verify that all supporting documents are attached before submitting.
• When stating your educational and career objectives, be concrete. Tell us what you are studying and why. Even if you’re undecided about your major, relay what you wish to accomplish with your education.
• Demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded individual. List all of you activities and be sure to include any recognition you have received for them. You may immediately think of academics or sports, but what about your community involvement? Are you involved with a religious organization? Have you participated in charitable drives? Do you have a hobby? Are you employed? Do you mentor or tutor? Don’t sell yourself short!
• If you don’t understand a portion of the application, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance: thanksusa@scholarshipamerica.org

The ThanksUSA team encourages you to share ThanksUSA’s mission with your family and friends – Just click on one of the social links below. Don’t forget to support our mission by making your tax-deductible donation today!

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ThanksUSA Accepting Scholarship Applications April 1st

ThanksUSA Scholarship Application Season Opens for 2013: Hundreds to be Awarded 

Children and spouses of U.S. troops are invited to apply for ThanksUSA scholarships beginning April 1, 2013.  The organization’s eighth annual application season helps military families pursue a university, college or post-secondary vocational education.

“These scholarships reflect Americans’ gratitude for the commitment and sacrifices of our military men and women and their families,” said ThanksUSA CEO and Chairman Bob Okun.  “The gift of education is our way of saying thanks for their service.”

ThanksUSA provides need-based scholarships to the children and spouses of active-duty personnel across all the Armed Forces, the National Guard and Reserves, as well as families of the fallen and wounded.  Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2013 online at www.ThanksUSA.org.

ThanksUSA has awarded 2,800 scholarships so far and expects to exceed 3,000 scholarships by the end of 2013.

“In past years, we’ve received thousands of requests during the six-week application period –  a clear indication of the support our military families need,” said ThanksUSA Executive Director Michele Stork.  “We expect an equally strong response in 2013. Our aim is to benefit 500 new recipients who most need and deserve the opportunity to transform their lives, but lack the resources to do so.”

The 500 ThanksUSA scholarships are valued at $1.5 million in total and are made possible by continuing campaigns and events.

• Tennis Thanks the Troops – The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) is championing this campaign for a second year, calling on its members, pros and tennis enthusiasts to participate in tournaments, raffles and other activities to benefit ThanksUSA starting Memorial Day weekend and throughout the year.

• Stevens Commemorative Scholarships – 2013 marks the third year of scholarships in honor of the late Senator Ted Stevens.  An additional 40 scholarships are expected to be announced at a special event honoring the late Senator and other Congressional World War II veterans.

• Kaplan University Support – Also entering its third year as a ThanksUSA partner is Washington-based Kaplan University. Kaplan University provides a full scholarship to attend the school as well as a number of partial scholarships to cover 55 percent of tuition costs.  “Kaplan University is once again pleased to participate with ThanksUSA and to offer scholarship opportunities to our military families,” said Scott Kilgore, senior vice president of military affairs, Kaplan University.

• Jackson Casey Scholarship Fund –In partnership with ThanksUSA, the Fund, whose mission is to keep the memory and spirit of Jackson Casey alive throughout the community, was created to provide need-based scholarships to the children of active-duty military from Virginia with an emphasis on Northern Virginia. Through donations and the annual Jackson Casey Memorial Golf Tournament, the Fund raised more than $200,000 in 2012. For the 2012-2013 school year, 15 scholarships totaling $45,000 were awarded in Jackson Casey’s name.

Support for ThanksUSA’s education goals also comes from donors including Altria, Apex, the Blavatnik Family Foundation, ESA Foundation, Folds of Honor Foundation, Goldman Sachs Gives, Intelligent Decisions, Lockheed Martin, No Greater Sacrifice Foundation, Paladin Capital Group, Pershing Square Foundation and others.

ThanksUSA was the idea of two Virginia sisters, Rachel and Kelsi Okun, who were compelled to thank our troops for defending our nation and its freedoms.  Since 2006, the 501(c)(3) non-profit has provided nearly $8.5 million in academic scholarship assistance to US military families throughout all 50 states, and all branches of service, with particular attention given to those whose loved one was killed or wounded in action.

For more information, eligibility requirements and to apply, visit www.ThanksUSA.org.

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About ThanksUSA

Founded in the fall of 2005, ThanksUSA, a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization, is an effort to thank the men and women of our armed forces and their families for their service to the country with the gift of education. The organization provides need-based, post-secondary education opportunities to the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel through competitive scholarships. For more information, please visit http://www.ThanksUSA.org.

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ThanksUSA partners with Be a Hero-Hire a Hero/The Judge Group

 

Military Families to Receive Scholarships Thanks to Unique Partnership

Between ThanksUSA and Be a Hero-Hire a Hero/The Judge Group

Washington, DC, December 21, 2012 – ThanksUSA today announced that it is partnering with Be a Hero-Hire a Hero/The Judge Group, the nation’s premiere organization for veterans transitioning to civilian life, to provide ThanksUSA need-based scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s troops.  The partnership brings together career and educational opportunities for the first time to build and strengthen the next generation of American leaders from the ranks of veterans, active personnel and military families.

“Our veterans and troops deserve every career opportunity when they return home and through our career expos we are able to help them make the transition to the work force.  Adding an education component takes it to the next level,” said Jeff Klare, CEO and founder of Be a Hero-Hire a Hero.  “With the scholarship funding passion and knowledge ThanksUSA brings, our military families will establish the next tier of leadership in the U.S.”

The joint effort will culminate in the biggest career event for veterans and their families in U.S. history: On September 27, 2013 in Washington, D.C. ThanksUSA, along with the Veterans Aid Foundation, will host the Be a Hero-Hire a Hero/The Judge Group Veteran’s Career Expo that will also be linked digitally to U.S. military bases worldwide.  Up to 500 corporations are expected to participate and sponsor the event with a portion of the funds benefiting ThanksUSA.

“This partnership will strengthen our military’s lifeline to the workforce by offering them the educational tools they need as they and their families transition to civilian life and look to the future,” said ThanksUSA Executive Director Michele Stork.  “The Career Expo means that we will be able to thank dozens more military families for their sacrifice through the gift of education.”

ThanksUSA was launched in 2005 when two Virginia schoolgirls set out to recruit Americans to thank active-duty troops in all branches of the Armed Forces, including the Reserves and National Guard, for defending our freedoms.  Since its inception, the national, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has awarded nearly $8.5 million in need-based two-year and four-year college and vocational education scholarships to 2,800 military families in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

“We are thrilled at the prospect of serving up to 10,000 veterans at what will be the largest Veteran’s Career Expo ever conducted and the thousands more veterans around the world,” said Klare.  “The ThanksUSA scholarships will give them even more options as they transition to life here at home.”

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 About ThanksUSA

Founded in the fall of 2005, ThanksUSA, a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization, is an effort to thank the men and women of our armed forces and their families for their service to the country with the gift of education. The organization provides need-based, post-secondary education opportunities to the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel through competitive scholarships. For more information, please visit www.ThanksUSA.org.

About Be a Hero-Hire a Hero

Be A Hero-Hire A Hero has been hosting successful Veteran’s Career Expos for eight years while creating hiring initiatives to show our appreciation for all the sacrifices our men and women serving in the military have made. Now it is our turn to give back! Veterans are in need of assistance as they transition back into civilian life, seeking employment and becoming productive members of the work-force. We are here to help.  For more information, visit us on the web at www.beahero-hireahero.com or call toll free (800) 238-5373.

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Stephen Curry/ThanksUSA Scholarship Recipient Samantha McEnhill

Samantha McEnhill has had an exciting year. Within the past twelve months, she has gotten married, relocated 2,000 miles from her previous home, and has, ever so slightly, altered her education plan. This week, Samantha speaks about staying focused on her academic goals while adjusting to military life.

Samantha spent much of her childhood honing her musical performance skills. As she aged, the enjoyment that she got from playing instruments developed into a love for music. Soon after, she realized the cultural value of all the arts and explains, “From visual art to literature, my love for the humanities and fine arts grew from a budding curiosity into a genuine passion.”

Thanks, in part, to a $3,000 Stephen Curry/ThanksUSA Scholarship, Samantha is now able to study the arts full-time. Samantha’s academic journey began three years ago at Michigan State University. When her husband received orders to California, Samantha was determined to complete her education. She is currently studying liberal arts at Solano Community College and plans to return to a four-year university to finish her humanities degree.

Samantha says, “Even though my bachelor’s degree may be taking longer to finish than I originally planned, I am staying focused on the positives. I would definitely encourage others not to dwell on setbacks you may be facing!”

Samantha also points out that she is not alone on her academic journey. Her husband, Airman Richard “Rick” McEnhill II, USAF, is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with plans to commission as a Combat Rescue Officer. Samantha adds, “He is a great man, and I am so glad I get to stand by his side and watch his military career progress, all the way from its beginning to end!”

The young couple has adapted well to their first big PCS. They have settled into their new home, found a welcoming church to call their own, and began volunteering with San Francisco’s Marine Mammal Center.

As Rick and Samantha face the challenges of military life together, Samantha’s attitude remains positive. Ideally, she will earn her teaching credentials so that she can teach art history or humanities. She realizes that another PCS could further delay her degree, but says, “This is not a race to see who can finish their degree first. The education does not diminish in value based on the time it takes to complete.”

Well said, Samantha! ThanksUSA is honored to provide scholarships to military dependents and spouses. You can help provide the gift of education by making your tax-deductible donation today. You can even direct your Combined Federal Campaign contribution to ThanksUSA by using code 99441 on your pledge form.

“The Stephen Curry/ThanksUSA Scholarship has made an incredible difference in my education this year! We can breathe so much easier knowing that there are foundations like ThanksUSA who are willing to offer scholarship support to military families, so we can continue our education. We are so grateful.”

– Samantha McEnhill

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ThanksUSA & No Greater Sacrifice Foundation Honor CBC Members

On Friday, September 21st, ThanksUSA and the No Greater Sacrifice Foundation will honor eight members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Members of Congress for their military service.

Honorees include:

Sanford D. Bishop Jr. of Georgia, served in the United States Army

G.K. Butterfield of North Carolina, served in the United States Army

John Conyers, Jr. of Michigan, served in the National Guard

Charles B. Rangel of New York, served in the United States Army

Bobby L. Rush of Illinois, served in the United States Army

Robert C. Scott of Virginia, served in the United States Army & National Guard

Edolphus Towns of New York, served in the United States Army

Allen West of Florida, served in the United States Army

 

ThanksUSA and the No Greater Sacrifice Foundation scholarship programs will be represented by two graduate students, Jaquel Barnes and Ms Jones:

Jaquel, an Army dependent, received No Greater Sacrifice Foundation/ThanksUSA Scholarships totaling $31,000 to complete her B.S. in Biological Science and Psychology at Florida State University. She is now conducting TBI research at the National Institute of Health and plans to obtain her M.D./Ph.D. in Neuroscience.

Be sure to check back this weekend for photos from the event.

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Tennis Thanks the Troops Trivia

Don’t miss this year’s TH7 Bonus: Tennis Thanks the Troops Trivia!

Play during the 2012 U.S. Open (Aug 27-Sept 9) for your chance to win!!

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2nd Annual AHEPA Cigar Night Announced!

Our dear friends and supporters from the Danbury, Connecticut chapter of AHEPA have scheduled the 2nd Annual Danbury AHEPA Cigar Night Fundraiser. Chairman Chris Lypides announced that this year’s event will be held on Thursday, October 4th at The Amber Room Colonnade. In addition to a night of networking, guests will enjoy fine cigars, top shelf liquor, and delectable dining. Smoking will be segregated to the beautiful outdoor patio area, so non-smokers may enjoy the evening equally. Ticket prices are $110 per person and proceeds will once again benefit ThanksUSA’s mission to provide scholarships to the dependent children and spouses of our military personnel. Tickets are available for purchase online at: www. AHEPAcigarnight.com

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Wimbledon Champ Lisa Raymond featured in ThanksUSA PSA

 

Washington, DC, July 27, 2012 – Lisa Raymond, the 2012 mixed doubles Wimbledon champion, appears in her first public service announcement for ThanksUSA since being announced as the charity’s national spokesperson earlier this year.

Click here to view the PSA.

“We are thrilled that Lisa is lending her celebrity to help ThanksUSA provide scholarships for the children and spouses of America’s troops,” said ThanksUSA Chairman and CEO Bob Okun. “Her spectacular Wimbledon victory with partner Mike Bryan reflects the same dedication and spirit they both bring to thanking our military families with the gift of education.”

“I am honored to support our Armed Forces through the mission of ThanksUSA,” Ms. Raymond said. “The scholarships open up enormous opportunities for those who have sacrificed so much for our country, and my hope is that this PSA brings increased attention to ThanksUSA’s efforts.”

Ms. Raymond has joined Mr. Bryan and twin brother Bob in ThanksUSA’s “Tennis Thanks the Troops” campaign, a cornerstone in the charity’s efforts. The nationwide campaign was launched this spring, with the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) leading the effort with ThanksUSA and additional support from the United States Tennis Association Mid-Atlantic (MAS).

Through the “Tennis Thanks the Troops” campaign, the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) No. 1 Doubles player and U.S. Open Doubles champion Ms. Raymond, along with the Men’s Doubles champions the Bryan twins, partner with U.S. tennis clubs, professionals, players and fans in helping provide need-based post-secondary school scholarships to military families.

“Our men and women in uniform and their families are incredibly inspiring,” said Mike and Bob Bryan. “Their bravery and commitment uplift every one of us, and raising our racquets for them is our way of showing our gratitude. We hope all Americans will join the ThanksUSA team.”

The powerhouse mixed doubles pair of Lisa Raymond and Mike Bryan is now setting their sights on repeating their Wimbledon win at the summer Olympics where mixed doubles is returning as a medal sport for the first time since 1924.

“Taking the title at Wimbledon this year was the kind of moment that drives me,” said Ms. Raymond. “Mike and I bring out the best in each other on the court and I’m looking forward to our joining forces again and representing our country at the Olympics.”

Mike and Bob Bryan, bronze medalists in Beijing, will also be competing for gold in men’s doubles. They are top seeds in the men’s doubles, and Liezel Huber and Lisa Raymond are seeded No. 1 in the women’s doubles.

“ThanksUSA is fortunate to have these world-class tennis players on our team,” said Okun. “Their commitment to our troops makes us all winners, and we’ll be cheering for them during the Olympics.”

For more information on ThanksUSA go to http://www.thanksusa.org

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Congratulations to ThanksUSA Scholar Nicole Cook!

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The ThanksUSA team congratulates Army dependent and ThanksUSA scholarship recipient, Nicole Cook, on her recent graduation from Stevenson Unviersity! The daughter of Sergeant 1st Class, David Cook, U.S. Army (Ret), Nicole has received a total of $9,000 in Folds of Honor Foundation/ThanksUSA Scholarships to help fund her elementary education studies. Nicole is eager to begin her career as a teacher and we’re happy to report that she will be joining the faculty of Carroll County Public Schools.

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Nicole’s name may be familiar to ThanksUSA supporters because of her assistance with ThanksUSA outreach events, receptions, and fundraisers. Most recently, she represented ThanksUSA scholarship recipients at the 5th annual ThanksUSA Golf Tournament at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. Prior to the event, Nicole appeared with ThanksUSA Chairman and CEO, Bob Okun, on Let’s Talk Live to speak about ThanksUSA’s mission and the golf fundraiser.

Please join us in wishing Nicole and all recent graduates well with their budding careers or continued educational journeys…our outstanding scholars deserve our support and we hope to bring you more highlights from the Class of 2012!

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American Tennis Rallies for Military Families With ThanksUSA

American Tennis Rallies for Military Families With ThanksUSA

Lisa Raymond (photo by ©Michael Baz, Australian Open)

Washington, DC, May 9, 2012 – ThanksUSA today announced that Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) No. 1 Doubles Player and US Open Doubles Champion Lisa Raymond will serve as a national spokesperson for the charity, which aims to thank America’s troops through the gift of education. Ms. Raymond is partnering with Men’s Doubles Champions Bob and Mike Bryan to team with tennis clubs, professionals, players and fans around the world to help provide ThanksUSA scholarships to military families.

“I am honored to become a spokesperson for ThanksUSA,” said Ms. Raymond. “These scholarships open up limitless opportunities to the spouses and children of our troops. I encourage everyone to give back to our future heroes.”

The Bryan brothers also produced a public service announcement for ThanksUSA that is being featured on the Tennis Channel and on TV stations in major markets.

The new nationwide “Tennis Thanks The Troops” campaign launched this month in honor of Military Appreciation Month. The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) is leading the effort with ThanksUSA, with support from the United States Tennis Association Mid-Atlantic (MAS) through their tournaments.

“We are proud to be a part of a program that allows our members the chance to give back to those who are serving our country and their families through the invaluable opportunity of education,” said USPTA CEO Tim Heckler.

“United States Tennis Association Mid-Atlantic strongly supports the efforts of ThanksUSA in providing the gift of education to our military families,” said Rod Dulany, MAS executive director. “Through ThanksUSA, the MAS Clubs are giving back to the troops that support us. I hope everyone joins us in this worthwhile project.”

Tennis facilities are holding ThanksUSA tournaments, sports clinics, auctions and other fundraising events, with a special focus on Memorial Day, to raise money in support of the ThanksUSA mission to provide need-based scholarships for the children and spouses of active-duty men and women across all the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Guard and Reserves.

“Our goal is to give the gift of education to those who sacrifice so much for every American – our military families,” said Bob Okun, chairman and CEO of ThanksUSA. “Tennis enthusiasts are raising their racquets to show how much they appreciate the men and women in uniform who protect our freedoms.”

For more information, visit www.ThanksUSA.org

About ThanksUSA
Founded in the fall of 2005, ThanksUSA, a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization, is an effort to thank the men and women of our armed forces and their families for their service to the country with the gift of education. The organization provides needs-based, post-secondary education opportunities to the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel through competitive scholarships. For more information, visit www.ThanksUSA.org.

About the USPTA
Founded in 1927, USPTA strives to raise the standards of the tennis profession while promoting greater awareness of the sport. USPTA offers 70 professional benefits to its more than 15,000 members worldwide, including certification and professional development. With more than 300 days of educational opportunities throughout the year, USPTA offers the most comprehensive continuing education program in the tennis industry. For more information, call 800-877-8248 or visit www.uspta.com.

About USTA Mid-Atlantic

The USTA/Mid-Atlantic Section, one of 17 sections of the United States Tennis Association, is a not-for-profit organization committed to promoting tennis by offering quality recreational and competitive programs for people of all ages and abilities. Mid-Atlantic has been part of the official governing body for tennis in America since 1923. We serve more than 40,000 members in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and eastern and southern West Virginia. Tennis players of all ages and skill levels are involved in leagues, tournaments and programs sanctioned by the section.

About Lisa Raymond (@lisaraymond73)

A native of Wayne, Pa., Raymond is currently ranked No. 1 in doubles on the WTA Tour alongside her doubles partner and fellow American, Liezel Huber. Throughout her professional career of 19 years, Raymond has won 78 women’s doubles events and six major championships. Raymond is the oldest woman ever to win a Grand Slam women’s’ doubles title, winning the 2011 US Open with Huber at age 38 (previous oldest was a 36-year-old Billie Jean King).


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LM&O Advertising/ThanksUSA Scholarship Recipient Devon Cooley

For Army dependent Devon Cooley, “It feels like only yesterday when I walked across the stage to receive my high school diploma.” Now, only weeks away from graduating from Michigan State University, Devon is busy preparing to be a Corps Member of Teach for America in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Throughout Devon’s undergraduate studies, she has received $6,000 in ThanksUSA Scholarships including a $3,000 LM&O Advertising/ThanksUSA Scholarship for her final year. Devon will graduate from MSU with high honors, earning her B.A. in Advertising with a minor in Women’s Studies.

Devon explains that she was initially attracted to the field of advertising “because of its unique combination of psychology, creativity, and media.” Along the way, however, Devon’s minor helped shift her career focus. “I have decided to pursue a career pathway that strives to correct the pressing social issues of contemporary society. My minor has helped me strengthen my understanding of the intersectionality of the many different types of disadvantages faced by citizens across the country and throughout the world,” she says.

Recognizing inequity in education inspired Devon to apply for her position with Teach for America. She explains, “Everyone deserves the opportunities that a quality education can provide. I’m looking forward to making a difference in the classrooms as a Secondary English teacher.”

Devon also plans to pursue graduate school in the future, but has some sound advice for potential and current undergrads saying, “I recommend for all undergraduate students to dive into campus life! They need to try new things and not be afraid of a busy schedule. It is incredible how fast my college experience has gone by… I took advantage of as many opportunities for involvement as I could, which has enabled me to make the most of my time at MSU. I have met several new people, developed my resume, and discovered new interests through my participation.”

Even with her busy campus schedule, Devon appreciates the importance of making time for her family. She explains, “My father has been stationed across the country or in the Middle East for the majority of his service. Even now, the closest to my family as he has ever been, he is separated by a six or seven hour drive. I have learned to perfect the balance of time that I devote to my friends, my studies, and my relatives. This hasn’t always been easy as a college student, but it has certainly helped me mature into an adult with a healthy respect for family matters. Now, when my family is reunited, everyone understands how special it is to have one another.”

Devon’s family is surely beaming with pride as they prepare to celebrate her graduation! The ThanksUSA team is honored to have been a part of Devon’s undergraduate studies and we look forward to updates from her Teach for America experience. We remind all readers that scholarship applications for the 2012-2013 academic year are being accepted through May 15, 2012 and complete details can be found here. We close this week’s Scholarship News with some words of thanks from Devon:

The financial assistance that I have received from LM&O Advertising and ThanksUSA has been invaluable to my education. Financing college has become increasingly difficult; yet the importance of obtaining a college degree has also become increasingly important. Without the help of ThanksUSA scholarships, I would not have been able to have such an incredible experience at MSU. I am grateful to have had the privilege of achieving a minor in addition to my major and to have experienced studying abroad.

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ThanksUSA Hosts 2012 Senator Ted Stevens Memorial Luncheon

This past Wednesday, friends and supporters of ThanksUSA gathered in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the legacy of the late Senator Ted Stevens while raising funds to support the second year of Senator Ted Stevens Memorial Scholarships to be awarded through ThanksUSA.

The Honorable Ted Stevens was the U.S. Senator from Alaska and was the longest-serving Republican in the United States Senate. He served continuously from 1968 to 2009. Senator Stevens enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force in 1943 and served in the China-Burma-India Theater with the Fourteenth Air Force Transport Section and received the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was elected to the Alaska House of Representatives in 1964, and became House majority leader in his second term. In 1968, he was appointed U.S. Senator to Alaska after the death of Senator Bob Bartlett. He held many leadership roles in the Senate, including Assistant Republican Leader (Whip) from 1977 to 1985, and Senate President Pro Tempore in 2003, and chaired many committees in his senatorial career, including Appropriations and Commerce.

Staffer for Congressman Young, Catherine Stevens, Sid Ashworth of Northrup Grumman, Maj Gen Pete Proctor, USA (Ret)

We extend our warmest appreciation to Mrs. Catherine Stevens, widow of the late senator, for joining active and retired military personnel, members of Congress, and ThanksUSA team members for this special fundraising event.

ThanksUSA Scholarship recipient, Jennifer Benecke, attended with her husband, Chief Petty Officer George Benecke, U.S. Navy, and thanked those in attendance for their continued support of ThanksUSA. In a few months, Jennifer will graduate from the University of Maryland: University College with a B.S. in Psychology. She is currently making plans to attend graduate and, eventually, hopes to work as a counselor to military veterans.

Jennifer and George Benecke with ThanksUSA's Michele Stork

Thanks to the generosity of ThanksUSA sponsors such as EADS and Lockheed Martin, ThanksUSA will once again honor the memory of Senator Stevens by awarding 40 Senator Ted Stevens Memorial Scholarships, valued at $3,000 each, to the children and spouses of U.S. military personnel pursuing post-secondary school education.

Senator Ted Stevens Memorial Scholarships for the 2012-2013 academic year are sponsored by EADS, Lockheed Martin, Rumsfeld Foundation, Altria, Northrup Grumman, TimeWarner, Express Scripts, General Dynamics, GE, Association of the United States Army, and Boeing.

Please visit the ThanksUSA Facebook page to view additional photos from the luncheon.

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ThanksUSA’s Recent Events

What an exciting week it has been for ThanksUSA!

On Tuesday, March 6, ThanksUSA founders Kelsi and Rachel Okun were honored as recipients of the 2012 Jefferson Awards for Public Service. What began as the idea of two young schoolchildren has blossomed into the national non-profit that has provided 2,500 scholarships to the children and spouses of military personnel. To date, ThanksUSA scholarship recipients have received nearly $7.5 million in financial aid. We extends our gratitude to the ThanksUSA friends and supporters who joined Rachel and Kelsi for the awards ceremony in New York…Congratulations Ladies!

2012 Jefferson Awards Recipients Rachel Okun and Kelsi Okun

Later in the week (Thursday, March 8) ThanksUSA recognized distinguished Irish Americans at a public service awards ceremony presented by Blavatnik Family Foundation. Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell, Congressman Jerry Lewis, and Governor Martin O’Malley were recognized for their continued dedication to our military service members. Dominick Murray, Deputy Secretary of the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development accepted the award on behalf of Governor O’Malley and Irish Tenor Anthony Kearns provided the musical entertainment with accompanist Patrick Healy.

(from left) Rachel Okun, Deputy Secretary Murray, Congressman Lewis, Governor McDonnell, Kelsi Okun

Additional photos from both events can be found on our Facebook page and we encourage you to remind friends, family, and co-workers that 2012 ThanksUSA scholarship applications will be accepted from April 1 through May 15, 2012. Prospective applicants can register for an email reminder here.

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Former Army Chief of Staff General Casey Joins ThanksUSA’s Board of Directors

General George W Casey, Jr USA (RET)

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WASHINGTON, October 6, 2011—ThanksUSA, a charitable effort to mobilize Americans to “thank” the nation’s active-duty troops, today announced that General George Casey, former chief of staff of the Army, has joined its Board of Directors.

“General Casey has been an unwavering advocate for military families throughout his career, and we are pleased to welcome him to the ThanksUSA family,” said Bob Okun, chief executive officer, ThanksUSA. “Given his proven excellence in both managing and serving in the United States Army, we will undoubtedly benefit from his valuable insights.”

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“I look forward to assuming my position on the ThanksUSA Board of Directors and working with such an honorable and well-respected group of individuals,” said General Casey. “This extraordinary effort has touched many military families, providing much-needed scholarships for the children and spouses of our brave men and women in uniform. I’m committed to ThanksUSA’s mission and hope to contribute to the continued success of the organization.”

General Casey served as the Army’s chief of staff from April 2007 to April 2011, as America endured its war on terror. He is credited with restoring a sense of balance and structure to the Army, which grew under General Casey’s leadership. Among his many accomplishments, he increased funding for soldier and family programs, and he took steps to improve the Army’s care for wounded soldiers and military families.

Prior to his executive position in the Army, General Casey served as the commander of Multinational Force Iraq, where he aimed to transfer Iraq control back into the hands of its people.

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Bikram Yoga Supports ThanksUSA

Our sincerest thanks to Jim Ambrogi and the students of Bikram Yoga. Bikram studios accepted Jim Ambrogi’s challenge to raise scholarship funds for ThanksUSA and now military spouses and children will benefit during the upcoming academic year! You can help ThanksUSA now by texting THANKSUSA to 85944 to make a $10 donation today. Maya Horowitz recaps the efforts of Bikram in the Alexandria Gazette Packet:

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