The Luckyday Scholars program is one of the most successful at this university. I wish I could put wheels on it and apply it universally. Under the able leadership of Larry Sparkman, the program enjoys an enviable 95% retention rate. The 400 students enrolled in the program contribute many volunteer hours to our community and fill the ranks of top student leaders.
The gift of $1,000,000 annually from the Luckyday Foundation, founded by the late Frank R. Day of Jackson, Mississippi, funds scholarships for Mississippi high school seniors who demonstrate leadership skills, who are exemplary students, who are involved in their communities, and need financial assistance to pursue a higher education at The University of Southern Mississippi.
The Luckyday Foundation Board members will be on campus today talking with students and learning of the progress of the program. I think they'll like what they see.