The largest of our scholarship programs is the Most Valuable Student program. In the 2008 contest, more than 15,000 students applied. We awarded scholarships to the top 500 based on scholarship, leadership and financial need.

The top two received $60,000 each. The two second-place winners received $40,000 scholarships. The two third-place winners received $20,000 scholarships. For the first time this year, we awarded 12 fourth- through seventh-place scholarships ranging from $8,000 to $16,000. Meanwhile, 482 runners-up received $4,000 scholarships.

The MVS scholarship allows these young people the opportunity to attain an excellent education. But more than anything, our wish for this year's Most Valuable Students is that life becomes all that they want it to.

Click the play button below to watch the streaming video of our tribute to the class of 2008 MVS scholars.