WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans is honored to announce the winners of the Horatio Alger Georgia Scholarship, including Hannah Boyd of the Effingham County High School class of 2013.

Boyd, the ECHS class of 2013 valedictorian, will attend the University of Georgia and study genetics.

The Horatio Alger scholarships are made possible with generous support from the O. Wayne Rollins Foundation. Horatio Alger scholarship recipients are chosen based on their demonstrated commitment to education, dedication to community service, and strength of character in overcoming personal obstacles to achieve academic excellence.

“It is a privilege to play a part in these young people’s college education,” said Tony Novelly, president and chief executive officer of the Horatio Alger Association. “They have already shown perseverance and courage in the face of adversity, and with opportunities made available through higher education and our free-enterprise system, there is no limit to the things they may achieve.”

Each scholar will receive $5,000 that will go toward their college tuition, fees, books and on-campus room and board.