16th DISTRICT NEWS

Midland High School Student Named National Finalist for Samsung American Legion Scholarship

June 23, 2010 Lacon, IL, June 23,2010 – A senior at Midland High School was named as a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist. Brianna Edwards Bodie was selected by the staff of Illini Girls State, which was held at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL on June 13 – 19, 2010.

In making the announcement the selection officials said Bodie was a Samsung American Legion Scholarship Finalist on the basis of academics, school and community involvement and financial need. As a Samsung American Legion Scholarship National Finalist Brianna will join 99 other National Finalists from around the United States each competing for one of ten scholarships, each scholarship worth an expected $20,000.

Brianna is the daughter of Jon and Karen Bodie of Lacon, IL and the granddaughter of David and the late Shannon Bodie formerly of Chillicothe, IL. She is a well-rounded student who has made the Tri-County Area Athletic / Scholastic Teams since her freshman year. She is involved with sports and several clubs at her school. Brianna is currently looking at various colleges and universities where she will be studying in the medical field.

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 served honorably. Bodie’s grandfather George Edwards served with the Army during the Korean War. The president and chief executive officer of Samsung North America, Dong-Jin Oh, says 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 Illini Girls State Program 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. Brianna was selected from the over 500 girls that attended Illini Girls State.