2009-12-04 23:51:08 - Coughlan Companies, Inc., the parent company of Raintree, publisher of worldwide quality library and classroom nonfiction and curricula support, as well as an exciting range of fiction titles, announces a new scholarship program to assist full-time university students.

Starting in 2010, Coughlan Companies will offer up to 16 scholarship awards in the amount of $2,500 each to qualified applicants.

Among the eligibility requirements includes a full-time status as an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in a first or second year program at an eligible institution. Students studying the following areas, who also meet additional requirements, are invited to apply: Primary Education, English Language, English Literature, Graphic Design, or Library Science.

“We’re thrilled to expand our scholarship program to include the United Kingdom, and recognise those students who demonstrate leadership and participation in their communities,” said Lisa Hanson, Coughlan Companies Director of Human Resources. “Coughlan Companies recognises that healthy, thriving communities depend on involved citizens, organisations and corporate partners for momentum.

Our Community Giving Program lends support, services and resources to community organisations working to improve the quality of life of the people we serve.”

To review the full scholarship guidelines and download an application, visit www.coughlancompanies.com/communitygiving.htm. Applications will be accepted starting January 11, 2010, and must be postmarked by March 1, 2010. Scholarships will be awarded by April 16, 2010. Scholarship Management ServicesÒ, a division of Scholarship AmericaÒ, will oversee the application and award process.

Coughlan Companies has a rich history of philanthropy in local communities and those abroad. In 2008 alone, the company supported more than 250 organisations’ initiatives through book donations, sponsorships, scholarships and employee volunteer time. Coughlan Companies, Inc. has offices in Mankato and Bloomington, Minn., Chicago, Ill., and Oxford, England.

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About Coughlan Companies, Inc.
Minnesota-based Coughlan Companies, Inc. (CCI) is the holding company for Capstone Publishers and Mankato-Kasota Stone, Inc. Capstone Publishers is the leading publisher of children’s books and digital products and services for school and public libraries, offering nonfiction, fiction, picture books, interactive and audio books, and literacy programs for students from Foundation to Key Stage 4. With an emphasis on high-kid-appeal and innovation, its companies include Raintree, Capstone Press, Compass Point Books, Picture Window Books, Stone Arch Books, and Red Brick Learning. Visit www.CapstonePub.com for more information. Mankato Kasota Stone, Inc. quarries and fabricates dolomitic limestone in southern Minnesota, providing crafted custom stone products for commercial and residential use. Visit www.MankatoKasotaStone.com for more information.