Glen Burnie Teen Wins Rotary Scholarship

Glen Burnie resident Dan Dawson, a senior at Rockbridge Academy in Millersville, recently won $1,400 in scholarship money from the Rotary Club of Annapolis.

Dawson was one of two students to receive scholarships from the organization, awarded scholarships in the Rotary Four-Way Test speech competition.

According to a press release from the organization, Dawson, the son of the Rev. Thom Dawson and Lisa D. Dawson of Glen Burnie, placed first in this year’s competitions at Rockbridge Academy. He also placed first in the local Annapolis Area High School competition, but other commitments prevented him from participating in the semi-finals.

Last year Dawson placed second in the finals of the district competition and won a total of $1,400 in scholarship funds in Rotary Four-Way Test speech competitions, according to the release.

Joshua Bradley of Gambrills also received $1,150 in scholarship funds.

“Both of these young men are eloquent and charismatic and will become great leaders and citizens serving our country,” said retired Navy Adm. John Kersh, local speech contest coordinator and Annapolis Rotarian, in the release. 

Dawson plans to attend the the Naval Academy in June where he expects to major in electrical engineering.

The topic of the speech contest is based on the Four-Way Test of Rotary International that is shared by all members:

• Is it the truth?
• Is it fair to all concerned?
• Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
• Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

The purpose of the contest is to help youth, Rotarians and the community at large to more completely understand, encourage and foster the principles of Rotary and the objectives of “Service Above Self,” according to the release.