“Every year, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program works closely with my office to announce the availability of scholarships and to distribute applications to our local students,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “This year, the Director of Outreach and the Project Director have also requested my assistance in acquiring a list of all high schools, their addresses, school contacts and their titles to be added to the GMS database for next year’s automatic distribution.”  

         “For the 2004-2005 competition, GMS will be delivering more than 200 applications to my Washington office and I will immediately forward these applications to my district office in American Samoa where my staff will assist all interested students in applying for a scholarship.  The Gates Millennium Scholars Program provides funding for minority students to assist them in obtaining an undergraduate and graduate education.  Pacific Islanders, including American Samoans, are eligible for this program and I encourage all qualified high school students to apply.”

         “Created in 1999, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is funded by Bill and Melinda Gates with the intent to encourage students to attend college as well as enable these students to attend the schools of their choice.  Students chosen as Gates Millennium Scholars receive funding based on financial need and the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses are also included,” the Congressman said.  “In addition, the scholarship is renewable based on the student’s academic progress and timely application.”  

         “Once again, I want to encourage every qualified student in American Samoa to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for a scholarship.  I also want to thank the GMS for working closely with my office year after year to provide scholarship opportunities for students in American Samoa and to assist them in continuing their education,” the Congressman concluded.