SPRINGFIELD –Scholarships totaling at least $10,000 will be awarded to area high school seniors who are interested in a career in health care.  These scholarships are made possible by the funds raised at Springfield Hospital Foundation’s annual Apple Blossom Cotillion.

According to Larry Kraft, Director of the Foundation, for the past three years all the proceeds from the Cotillion have been used for scholarships.  Previously, he states, proceeds had also purchased equipment for the hospital.  “The shortage of health care workers and the increasing cost of college education convinced us to use all the proceeds for scholarships.” says Kraft.  “It would be nice,” he adds, “if some of these students would return to Springfield with their degrees and work here.”

The number and amount of individual scholarships awarded will depend on the revenues generated by this year’s Cotillion.  Scholarships will be awarded based on: acceptance to a medical-based program of study, high school grades, personal character, and financial need.

Application forms are available in school guidance offices. Deadline is May 5, the Monday after the 52nd annual Apple Blossom Cotillion, at which last year’s scholarship recipients will be recognized.

For more information, please contact Larry Kraft, Director, Springfield Hospital Foundation, 802-885-7644 or email: lkraft@springfieldhospital.org.