Student receives Purdue University scholarship

Oakville High student receives Purdue University scholarship valued at about $500,000
Posted on 03/25/2019
ohs-caitlin-blanchard

Caitlin Blanchard, an Oakville High School senior, has been awarded the Steven C. Beering Scholarship from Purdue University Honors College. The scholarship covers the full educational expenses for a bachelor's degree, a master's degree and either a Ph.D., or a professional degree in medicine, veterinary medicine or pharmacy.

"It's an extraordinary achievement for an extraordinary young lady," said Jan Kellerman, principal at Oakville High School. "She has persevered, and we are so proud of her."

The Beering Scholarship is a tremendous value – estimated at around $500,000 for out-of-state students. It covers the average cost of education (tuition, room and board) for three degrees and funding for a study-abroad experience. Scholarship recipients are selected through an invitation-only process once students are admitted to Purdue. A committee then reviews applications, conducts interviews, and determines the recipients.

“We are familiar with ‘full ride’ scholarships that cover four years of undergrad but have never heard of one this extensive before,” said Caitlin’s parents, Matt and Suzy Blanchard. “It is such an honor and blessing to have her as a Beering Scholar. We are super proud of her.”

Blanchard plans to pursue degrees in pharmacy and a career in pharmaceutical research.

"I have Tourette Syndrome, so I have experience with different indirect medications since there’s none that can actually treat it straight on," Caitlin Blanchard said. "I've had a very difficult time dealing with it, and it has impacted me socially, too. If there is anything I can do to help lessen the pain for future generations, I am more than willing to do it."  

Students are selected based on high school credentials and leadership skills. The program was created by Purdue's ninth president, Dr. Steven C. Beering, who raised private funds for the endowment.

The Mehlville School District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or sex including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity and other characteristics protected by law. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: contact Adam Smith at 314-467-5006 or [email protected].