Two University of Richmond students receive Philip Morris USA scholarships

January 4, 2007

University of Richmond sophomores Patricia Byrne of Media, Pa., and Naa-Koshie France of Midlothian, Va., have won Philip Morris USA scholarships through the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC).

Both students were selected through a statewide competition with applicants from all 15 member VFIC colleges. Each $10,000 scholarship carries an opportunity to be considered for a paid summer internship at Philip Morris USA in Richmond.

Scholarships are provided to sophomores who have academic promise, demonstrated financial need and an interest in internship opportunities with a Fortune 500 company. Each scholar will receive $5,000 toward the junior year and $5,000 toward the senior year.

"The competition for this scholarship was strong, so it's a real credit to Trish and Koshie to be selected," said Ned Moore, president of VFIC.

Founded in 1952, VFIC is a nonprofit, fundraising partnership supporting programs and students of 15 leading private colleges in Virginia.