Jessica Brandel Wins Scholarship Through National Auto Value Program

New Ulm, Minn. – July 30, 2009 – Jessica Brandel, daughter of Pete and Sharon Brandel, was one of 16 students nationally to receive a $1,000 scholarship from Auto Value.

Brandel applied for the scholarship through the New Ulm Auto Value parts store, an aftermarket auto parts supplier serving New Ulm and its surrounding communities.  She will be attending South Dakota State University this fall and majoring in pharmacy.

For the thirteenth year, Auto Value has awarded scholarships to team members and/or their children to assist in their post-high school education, demonstrating that education is a top priority.  Since the scholarship program began, more than $200,000 has been dedicated to helping team members and their families continue their education.

To address the increasing costs of continuing education, Auto Value altered their program from the previous $500 scholarships to offer 16 selected students $1,000 to use at the school of their choice.

Students seeking a scholarship were required to write a 200-word essay on “What I hope to accomplish through my post high school graduation.”  Applicants must have completed high school to be considered for the $1,000 scholarship, which will be paid directly to the recipient’s school of choice for the fall 2009 semester.

“Money is tight for everyone these days and hard choices have to made; we believe education shouldn’t be a casualty,” said Ric Frederickson, store manager.  “We are committed to helping our team members and their families be successful, and if this scholarship helps make the burden lighter or makes the difference between going to school or not, then we’ve made the right choice in supporting the college scholarship program.  We are very proud of Jessica and happy that we could play a part in helping her continue her education.”

(Jessica Brandel)