Allyson Carpenter was recently named a 2016 Truman Scholar. Carpenter is Howard University’s ninth Truman Scholar since 1989.

She went through a rigorous, multi-stage selection process and is one of only 54 students from 47 U.S. colleges and universities across the nation selected for this honor. More than 775 candidates were nominated for the award by 305 colleges and universities. The prestigious Truman Scholarship provides up to $30,000 for graduate study. It is awarded annually to students who have excelled academically and are committed to careers in public service.

“Howard University is thrilled to have Allyson Carpenter selected as a Truman Scholar,” says Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, Howard University President. “This is a tremendous honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of Allyson and her mentors.”

Carpenter, a political science major and community development minor is originally from Ohio. She is a high achieving student with diverse extra-curricular interests. At age 18, she was elected to serve as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in the District of Columbia, making her the youngest elected official in the history of the nation’s capital. "I am truly honored for this opportunity to represent Howard University as our ninth Truman scholar. I am excited about the prospects of attending graduate school and trust that this scholarship will allow me grow as a public servant." Carpenter said. “I can say without a doubt that I would not be a Truman Scholar if not for Dr. Frederick’s decision to create the Office of Honors and Scholar Development.”

“The Office of Honors and Scholar Development was developed by Dr. Frederick to promote, encourage and support the undergraduate community of critical thinkers,” said Kari Miller, Director of the Office of Honors and Scholar Development.” At Howard University, Allyson has served as the President of the Political Science Society and the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Howard University Student Association. In 2015, Allyson was named Bison of the Year for her accomplishments on campus and in the community. Carpenter will receive her award in a ceremony at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum on Sunday, May 29, 2016.

About The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation was created by Congress in 1975 to be the nation’s living memorial to President Harry S. Truman. The Foundation has a mission to select and support the next generation of public service leaders. The Truman award has become one of the most prestigious national scholarships in the United States. The Truman Scholarship Foundation was established by Congress in 1975 as the federal memorial to the nation’s 33rd President. The Foundation awards scholarships for college students to attend graduate school in preparation for careers in government or elsewhere in public service. The activities of the Foundation are supported by a special trust fund in the US Treasury. Since 1977, when the award was established, the Foundation has selected 2670 Truman Scholars.

About Howard University

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 13 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 120 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University has produced three Rhodes Scholars, nine Truman Scholars, two Marshall Scholars, over 60 Fulbright Scholars and 22 Pickering Fellows. Howard also produces more on campus African-American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, call 202-238-2330, or visit the University's Web site at www.howard.edu