Current and former patients awarded $1,000 scholarshipAssociated Orthodontists proudly announces the winners of its Annual Scholarship Program. The scholarship program was open to all current and former patients who were graduating high school seniors, received full braces at Associated Orthodontists and had a GPA of at least 3.0.Each winner received a $1,000 scholarship to be applied directly to tuition at a college, university, vocational training or technical school.Applications were reviewed by a panel at Associated Orthodontists, and were chosen based on submitted essays, academic achievements, and participation in school and community activities.2018 Scholarship WinnersAllison R.Allison graduated from Plainfield Central High School and is attending Illinois State University, entering the Elementary Ed BSED program. She was a Wildcat cheerleader during her four years at Plainfield, plus was involved in Key Club, Wildcats Care Club and Link Crew Leadership. She served as Cheer Captain, received an NCA All-American Award and was named to the Honor Roll. During her free time, Allison volunteered at Feed My Starving Children, visited local retirement homes and volunteered numerous hours at other local organizations.Avery R.An honor roll graduate of St. Francis High School in Wheaton, Avery is looking forward to attending St. Louis University, entering the Biology program in the College of Arts & Sciences. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Behavior, SADD Executive Board and student government. Additionally, she played on the SFHS lacrosse team, serving as its captain. She donated numerous hours of personal time volunteering at organizations such as Feed My Starving Children, Bundlz of Love and the Northern Illinois Food Bank, in additional to several other community organizations.Joe K.A graduate of Peotone High School, Joe was a member of the National Honor Society, an Illinois State Scholar and named to the Superior Honor Roll. Throughout high school, he played for the PHS soccer team, plus was involved in the Scholastic Bowl Team, Science Club and International Culture Club. Outside of school, Joe was employed by Woldhuis Farms-Sunrise Greenhouse and served as a youth group member at the Faith United Reformed Church, in addition to volunteering numerous hours at various community organizations. Joe is looking forward to attending LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas to study Material Joining Engineering.Julia R.Julia graduated from Lincoln-Way Central High School as an Illinois State Scholar with a National Merit Scholarship Program Letter of Recommendation. During high school, she served as Secretary for her class, Mathletes and Key Club. Julia was a founding member of the Robotics Team, plus was involved in the Art Club, Spring Musical Stage Crew, Homecoming Olympics, Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Pi Sigma Pi History Honor Society and National Honor Society. She also accumulated over 80 hours of service through numerous in-school clubs and community service organizations. Julia will be attending the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, entering the College of Engineering.Payton V.A High Honor Roll graduate of Morris Community High School, Payton will be attending Valparaiso University in Indiana. During his time as a Redskin, he was a member of the football, basketball and baseball teams, plus was involved in the National Honor Society, Interact, Ski Club, M-Club, Student Council and served as a D.A.R.E. Mentor. Additionally, Payton volunteered hundreds of hours for in-school programs as well as several community organizations. He is looking forward to continuing his football career as a member of the Valpo Crusaders and will continue his education in the College of Arts and Sciences with a major in Mathematics.Associated Orthodontists has six convenient locations in Joliet, Plainfield, Morris, New Lenox, Frankfort and Bourbonnais. Please visit greatbraces.com to find a location near you. If you have questions about the scholarship program, please contact Julie Gardner at jgardner@greatbraces.com.About Associated OrthodontistsSince 1969, Associated Orthodontists has been providing patients with care that is focused on wellness, satisfaction and perfection. With cutting-edge treatments and extraordinary outcomes, its team of highly trained orthodontists are committed to creating a customized, stress-free and rewarding experience for patients and families. The partners at Associated Orthodontists include the most experienced and renowned orthodontists in the area, committed to improving smiles and making a positive impact in the communities they serve. For more information on Associated Orthodontists, including services and locations, please visit greatbraces.com.