The Fort Graham Chapter was pleased to offer the DAR Good Citizen Scholarship Essay Contest to Hill County students. Both winning students were invited to read their essays at a spring meeting of the chapter and will receive cash awards from the group

The DAR Good Citizens program and Scholarship Contest is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. The faculty from each high school in Hill County is asked to select a Good Citizen from their senior class who exhibits the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Each school's DAR Good Citizen receives a DAR Good Citizen pin, certificate, and wallet recognition card.

Mildred Jackson and Carlene Gribble serve on the DAR Good Citizen Committee for the Fort Graham Chapter.

American History Essay Contest

One hundred and two Hill County students entered the DAR American History Essay Contest by composing an essay on the topic "Young America Takes a Stand: The War of 1812". Students were asked to pretend they were alive during and War of 1812 and had a friend who became famous in history because they stood up for America during that exciting but dangerous time. They were asked to describe the person and how he or she stood up for America, explaining why it is important to honor such heroes when we celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812.

College Scholarships

In 2009, the Fort Graham Chapter, with inspiration and seed money from member Betty Fritz, established a local chapter scholarship to be awarded to a graduating senior from Whitney High School. The chapter has raised money each year to continue that tradition. In 2011, the DAR Good Citizens from nine Hill County high schools were invited to compete for the scholarship along with the Whitney High School seniors. Danielle Rutherford from Hillsboro High School was selected as the scholarship recipient this year.

Applicants were asked to submit a résumé of academic credentials, extra-curricular activities, community service, and awards and special recognitions, as well as to write an essay stating how they anticipate honoring their American citizenship and contributing to society as they become an adult member of society.

Betty Fritz, Jane Osborn, and Madeleine Lively serve on the Scholarship Committee for the Fort Graham Chapter.