Hastings College junior April Christensen of Hardy, Neb., has been named a Creigh Weyer Scholar by the Creigh Foundation. This highly-selective, post-graduate scholarship is offered to Hastings College juniors who have outstanding leadership potential.

Christensen is a double-major in piano performance and biology. Active in environmental initiatives both on campus and in the community, she plans to pursue a Master of Public Affairs degree and has an eventual goal of leadership in sound environmental practices and sustainability.  Among other activities, she has completed internships with the Alaska Conservation Foundation in rural Alaska and with the Center for Research on Invasive Species and Small Populations in Idaho.

The Creigh Weyer Scholarship offers up to $40,000 in grants to support graduate study in any field in the United States or overseas, as well as active mentoring, guidance and support from senior leaders in business, government and academia.

Creigh Weyer Scholars are selected on the following criteria:
* Demonstrated leadership potential,
* High probability of becoming a leader who will have a substantial impact on his or her community,
* Highest ethical standards and integrity,
* Strong communication skills, and
* Strong academic record with likely acceptance by a first-rate graduate school.

Other finalists for the Creigh Weyer Scholarship were:
*   Megan Puckett, Lincoln, Neb., a major in biology and a minor in psychology, plans to pursue combined degrees in medicine and public health and a career in public health.
*   Corey Reutlinger, Lexington, Neb., a major in pure and applied mathematics, plans to pursue a graduate degree in mathematics and a career in advanced research or college teaching.
*   Lauren Slaughter, Hastings, Neb., a major in political science, plans to pursue a graduate degree in public and international affairs and social policy and a career in public policy, especially relating to underserved groups.
*   Jacob Wardyn, Weeping Water, Neb., a biology major, plans to pursue a degree in medicine and a career as an anesthesiologist and community leader.

Hastings College, founded in 1882, is a private, four-year liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). A total of 64 majors in 32 areas of study and 12 pre-professional programs are offered to more than 1,190 students. Hastings College was named among “America’s Best National Liberal Arts Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report, a “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review, and a “Best Buy in College Education” by Barron’s. Visit www.hastings.edu for more information.