LAKE NONA, Fla. – The United States Professional Tennis Association and ThanksUSA have awarded the 2019-2020 USPTA/ThanksUSA Scholarship to three college students. Through Tennis Thanks the Troops, the USPTA and ThanksUSA encourage USPTA members to raise money for scholarships for families of U.S. military personnel. Each recipient will receive $3,000 towards their undergraduate studies. “We’re so excited about the scholarships we present in partnership with Tennis Thanks the Troops,” USPTA CEO John Embree said. “This initiative is a priority for our entire Association and our members are always so eager to help. It’s one small way that we as an organization can show our appreciation to our military and their families.” Lucy, who was born in China and adopted by an Army veteran at age 3, will study graphic design at Towson University. She has always felt a strong connection to her Asian heritage and hopes to bring Asian stories to life though her motion graphics and animations. Hannah, the daughter of a retired Air National Guardsman, will study criminal justice and behavioral sciences at Iowa State University. The importance of service to other was instilled in her from a young age, and she was inspired to pursue a career in law enforcement after completing an internship with the police department in her hometown. Ismae, the daughter of a Marine Corps veteran, studies forensic science and biology at Curry College in Massachusetts. She volunteers at the Clark County Coroner/Medical Examiner’s Office in her hometown and hopes to become a forensic pathologist. “ThanksUSA is grateful for the continued support from the USPTA through Tennis Thanks the Troops events, donations and support for our Tennis Lesson Challenge.” About the USPTA Founded in 1927, the United States Professional Tennis Association is the global leader in tennis-teacher certification and professional development. With more than 15,000 members worldwide, the association raises the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches and promotes a greater awareness of the sport. About ThanksUSA ThanksUSA is a 501(c)(3) organization that honors the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by providing need-based scholarships and pathways to employment for their spouses and children. Since 2006, ThanksUSA has awarded 4,700 scholarships valued at more than $15 million to military families in all 50 states and every branch of the military. For more information, visit www.ThanksUSA.org.
