Andrew Van der Vaart 2005 Scholarship Winner

The 2006 UVA Club of the Triangle Scholarship winner is Rob Smithson, Jr.!

We are proud to announce our 2007 Triangle Hoos Scholarship winner: Robert Smithson, Jr.! Robert graduated high school this spring from Cary Academy. He received many awards, including recognition as a Presidential Scholar (one of 141 nationally to receive this honor).

Robert is an accomplished swimmer, musician and philanthropist. His list of service includes working with impoverished children in St. Lucia, orphaned children in the Ukraine, and a project providing firewood to less fortunate families in the Triangle.

Our scholarship was awarded to Robert because of his impressive resume and his essay, explaining his goals as a student at UVa. Robert discussed how he wishes to be involved in the orchestra and several smaller music groups. He also expressed an interest in working with “Project Serve” and using that as a springboard into other service opportunities in the Charlottesville area.

Robert received admission and scholarships from several prestigious universities, but chose UVa. Why? Because he greatly admires Thomas Jefferson, a true Renaissance man, and would like the opportunity to emulate him as best he can. As we know, UVa will provide Robert with many great experiences and tools that will serve him well throughout his life. We hope that our scholarship award helps Robert in his academic career.

The Triangle Hoos provide one scholarship annually to a local student attending UVA in the fall.

To apply, the candidates had to submit a maximum 400-word essay on a provided topic. A committee rated the entries according to three criteria: creativity, clarity, and use of the English language.

Scholarship applications are mailed by the Club after notification of those accepting the UVA offer of admission (our list of addresses is provided by UVA's Office of Admissions.)