Now is the time to plan ahead for spring semester 2009 at PDCCC! Early Bird Registration (for current students) for spring semester begins Nov. 17, with classes starting Jan. 12, and the application deadline for local scholarships and grants is Nov. 7.

Through the generosity of various individuals and organizations, these awards are available to help students “Get Ahead.”

Today, I’d like to highlight a special scholarship available for the first time during spring semester, the Col. Lula B. Holland, U. S Army (Ret.), MSW, BSN, AA Scholarship.

After dropping out of high school for several years, Lula B. Holland decided to return and completed her high school diploma at the age of 21. Later, she earned an Associate of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and a master’s degree in social work. She retired from the U.S Army Reserves at the rank of Colonel, having served as the chief nurse of the 18th Field Hospital—and from the City of Portsmouth, having served as the assistant director of social services.

Known throughout the country as the “hat lady” because she is never seen in public without wearing a beautiful hat on her head, Lula prides herself more in wearing the “hats” of service to her country, service to her community, service to her church and service to her family.

This annual scholarship, established in Col. Holland’s name by her daughter, Helivi Holland, will provide for books and incidentals related to the completion of a degree by a non-traditional student.

The criteria for this $250 award include the following:

4High school graduate or GED recipient;

4Enrollment in at least six semester hours of an associate or applied science degree program at PDCCC;

4Starting college at age 21 or older;

4Resident of Suffolk;

4Financial need (paragraph describing financial need must be attached to application);

4Proof of community service;

4Two letters of reference (must be attached to application);

4Essay describing how the decision was made to begin pursuing a college education at an age greater than 21 years old and future plans (must be attached to application).

For information on all spring semester scholarships or programs available at PDCCC, call 569-6700 or visit our website at www.pdc.edu.