Scholarship Recipient Jake Kurczek

Scholarship Recipient Stacey Pfeiffer

AKC was overwhelmed with the response to for the 2005 Junior Scholarships. This year 138 applications were received. Eligibility requirements include, being a US citizen or permanent resident, being a student at an accredited institution. Criteria for awarding scholarships included: 1) Applicant’s Need, 2) Applicant’s Academic Achievement and potential, 3) Applicant’s involvement in the fancy. Additionally, each applicant had to submit an essay describing their experience in the fancy and the significance that purebred dogs have had in their past or may have in their future.

The 58 recipients represent a cross section of the fancy today, ranging from those who are third and fourth generation participants to those who found their way to their first dog events without their family being involved.

Participation included every AKC event offered to date, with personal success ranging from representing the United States on the World Agility Team, in the International Junior Competition at Crufts and the World Show, to finishing homebred champions and earning titles, to just competing. In addition, applicants were active in their schools and communities in a myriad of ways. Many of the recipients are already active members of AKC clubs, breeders of Champions, Judges of Junior Showmanship, 4H leaders and participants, involved with therapy dog work, and volunteers in their communities.

Many of the applicants reflected in their essays the significant life skills they obtained through their experiences with their dogs. The skills described from their involvement with dogs ranged from responsibility and time management, to communication, goal setting, hard work, maintenance and conditioning of their dogs, prenatal care, geriatric care, sportsmanship and most consistently, the love and companionship of our four legged friends.

Aspirations for the future include Veterinarian, Genetic Research, Journalist, Teacher, Lawyer, Dog Trainer, and Professional Handler. All reflected on how participation in purebred dogs as breeders, club members and exhibitors will be part of their future.

The 2005 Scholarship Recipients, 58 in Total Scholarship awards ranged from $5,000-$1,000.