Solon High Grad Joins Prestigious Scholars Program

SOLON, OH — Recent Solon High School graduate Lauren Williams has been named an Ashbrook Scholar. Joining the prestigious academic program means Williams receives at least $2,000 in scholarship money to attend Ashland University.

The Ashbrook Program has a unique focus on students studying political science, history or political economy. The program is administered by the Ashbrook Center.

"The Ashbrook Scholar Program is a highly competitive program for top students interested in civic leadership," said Jeff Sikkenga, the Ashbrook Center’s interim executive director. "The application process is significantly more rigorous than the average college entrance process because we're looking only for the most serious and motivated students."

All Ashbrook Scholars receive a scholarship of at least $2,000. The scholarship is renewable each year based on a student's merits.

Williams was one of four students named Ashbrook Scholars this week. The other students joining the program are Ardith Amon, a graduate of Amherst Steele High and William Bleisath and Hope Nearwood, two graduates from Bay High.

Ashbrook Scholars will get a traditional liberal arts education while also having private conversations with distinguished visiting scholars and public figures. The students will also take part in seminars taught using the Socratic method, participate in internships and write, present and defend a "Statesmanship Thesis."