Three La Porte High School seniors are among 300 students from across the nation to be named as Dell Scholars for the 2008-2009 school year.  Donalyn Allen, Ana Gonzales, and Oanh Pham each received $20,000 to continue their higher education over the next six years.

  According to the scholarship criteria, Dell Scholars are students who demonstrate their desire and ability to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.  The scholarship program, an initiative of the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, has provided students with $19 million in college scholarships since 2004. 

  In addition, the Dell Scholars program provides students with technology, a private scholar networking community, resources and mentoring to ensure they have the support they need to obtain a college degree.  The Michael and Susan Dell Foundation believes that funding a significant percentage of the scholars' college expenses will enable these students to focus on their college studies and complete their bachelor's degrees.

"All of these scholars are in our AVID program at LPHS and receiving this honor is a direct result of not only all of their hard work, but all the hard work of their teachers and supporters at LPHS" said Joanne Kolius, LPHS principal.

  Donalyn plans to attend Stephen F. Austin State University, while Oanh will enroll at the University of Texas at San Antonio and Ana at the University of Houston.