Racine Student wins BBB’s “Student of Integrity” Scholarship

Milwaukee, Wis. – The Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin Foundation and State Collection Service, Inc. is pleased to announce that the winner of its first-ever “Student of Integrity” Scholarship is Dominique Hyatt-Oates, a senior at Walden III High School in Racine.

Hyatt-Oates was selected from more than 500 applicants throughout Wisconsin. She will receive a $2,500 scholarship to attend an accredited college or university of her choice. She intends to major in athletic training and physical therapy at Washington State University in Pullman, Wash.

“Dominique is an exceptional student and leader,” said Randall Hoth, chairman of the BBB of Wisconsin Foundation. “She truly is a ‘Student of Integrity’ and I’m very pleased to award her with this scholarship.”

To earn the scholarship, students must be a high school senior with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 – among other requirements. They’re requested to write a short essay describing how they build character in themselves and in others, and how they will build character in the future. The essay, along with their community involvement, volunteer activities, awards and honors, are all considered by a panel of 10 judges.

Hyatt-Oates was selected because of her 3.833 grade point average (on a 4-point scale), her written essay and her demonstrated toughness and perseverance in the face of personal obstacles.

The Student of Integrity Scholarship is intended to give a high school senior who has demonstrated character, leadership and ethical values the opportunity to continue his or her education beyond high school at an accredited college. It is sponsored by the BBB of Wisconsin Foundation and ethical Wisconsin companies. This year, it was co-sponsored by State Collection Service, Inc. in Madison, a 2008 BBB Business Ethics Torch Award winner.

“State Collection Service is excited to be such a big part of the Student of Integrity Scholarship,” said Tom Haag, president and CEO, State Collection Service, Inc. “Today, more than ever, we must help the next generation of businessmen and women understand the fundamental need for integrity in their day-to-day relationships and activities. We are proud to play a role in recognizing the importance of integrity in the marketplace by awarding this scholarship to a very deserving student.”

As the recipient of this year’s scholarship, Hyatt-Oates will be spotlighted at the BBB’s Torch Award for Business Ethics & Integrity banquet, an annual event that honors the state’s most ethical businesses and charities.