AMES, Iowa -- A $2,000 scholarship has been awarded to a Washington County student. Meghan Hammen, Washington, received a Hills Bank 4-H Scholarship sponsored by Hills Bank and Trust Company.

The Hills Bank 4-H Scholarship is awarded to as many as 20 students each year. The recipients, who apply during their junior year in high school, attend nine hours of leadership training sponsored by Hills Bank and Trust Company during their senior year. Afterward, they receive $500 per semester for two years. The scholarship may be used at any of Iowa's accredited universities, colleges or community colleges.

"The Hills Bank Leadership training program has made me realize that I truly am a leader and that I have the ability to be a leader the rest of my life," Hammen, the daughter of Kim and Duane Hammen, said. "It has made me want to use my leadership skills to pursue my dreams of making a positive difference in the lives of many."

Hammen was a member of 4-H, National Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), the Extended Learning Program, Business Professionals of America, Art Service Club and Peer Helpers. She also participated in dance, cheerleading, choir and swing choir.

Hammen was the secretary of her 4-H club and Peer Helpers, co-president of SADD, co-chair of the Washington High School Mini-Dance Marathon and a team captain of Relay for Life. She was recognized as a State of Iowa Scholar, Governor's Scholar, class valedictorian and Washington County Fair Queen.

A recent graduate of Washington High School, Hammen plans to attend the University of Iowa to begin her studies in medicine.

For more information about 4-H or its scholarship program, contact the Iowa State University Extension office in your county.

-30-

bd