On Aug. 5, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans announced that Seyer A. Baqi of Smyrna, Delaware has been awarded the Dennis R. Washington Achievement Scholarship to assist in funding his postgraduate education. Seyer will receive $90,000 from the association.
Seyer was eligible for this scholarship because he is a 2006 alumnus of the Horatio Alger Delaware State Scholarship Program — an award given to high school seniors who overcame adversity and life obstacles while excelling in academics and contributing to their communities. The Dennis R. Washington Achievement Scholarship is awarded to students seeking graduate and professional degrees and is made possible by a $10 million grant from chairman emeritus and Horatio Alger member Dennis R. Washington, and his wife, Phyllis.
With the help of the Horatio Alger Association as a high school senior, Seyer attended the University of Delaware and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. This fall, Seyer will pursue a doctor of dental medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, entirely funded by the Dennis R. Washington Achievement Scholarship. Committed to community service, Seyer plans to practice dental medicine to help those in need.
“With the financial help of the association, I can pursue my lifelong dream which is to really make a difference in society,” said Seyer. “Having been given so many opportunities, I want to use my career as a dentist to help people who are in need, both at home and abroad.”
“We are proud to support Seyer in the next chapter of his academic career,” said Tony Novelly, president and chief executive officer of the Horatio Alger Association. “Seyer is a steward of the Horatio Alger mission through his perseverance, commitment to lifelong learning and helping those in need. The association is also grateful for the financial support and numerous contributions of Dennis and Phyllis Washington.”
Dennis R. Washington, founder of the Washington Companies, has his own Horatio Alger story of inspiration and success. Facing childhood polio and other adversities, Washington’s work ethic and unwavering motivation helped him to become vice president of the largest construction company in Montana by age 26. Later, he created his own construction company, which grew to be one of the largest in the nation. The Washingtons believe in the power of education and helping young people in need reach their dreams, and have given a great deal of time and support to the association and various other charities.
