JOHNS CREEK, Ga., Sept. 28, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saia, Inc. (Nasdaq:SAIA) is pleased to announce the names of 12 recipients receiving scholarships totaling $18,000 as part of the company's 2009 Scholarship Award Program. Since its inception in 2003, the program has awarded a total of $105,000 to 70 students. Saia's Scholarship Program is designed to reinforce the importance of higher education and as a benefit to company employees. It is open to full-time employees attending college and/or their dependents who are designated full-time students.
The following six students were awarded a $2,000 scholarship: -- Athena Gilson of San Diego, CA -- Luis Guajardo of Laredo, TX -- Robert Johns of Clearlake, CA -- Brandon Karl of Barberton, OH -- Felecia Kline of Ramer, TN -- Lindsay Schulz of Omaha, NE The six students awarded a $1,000 scholarship are: -- Martha Hensel of Mableton, GA -- Christi Grudier of Beaumont, TX -- Jordan Hunter of St. Helens, OR -- Marc Rachel of Wichita Falls, TX -- Caroline Ruiz of Mandeville, LA -- Alecia Smith of Pinconning, MI
"The response the program received this year was considerable," said Saia President and CEO Rick O'Dell. "The number of applications sent in shows the desire of students to build a bright future for themselves and in some cases, their families. We feel it an honor to be able to support our employees and their dependents in this manner -- especially during tough economic times."
Applications to the program are reviewed by a selection committee who evaluate each student's academic achievement, essay quality, community service, leadership capabilities, communication skills and recommendation letters. Scholarships are awarded based on achievement in one or more of three areas: Academic Merit, Community Service and/or Innovation.
Saia, Inc. (Nasdaq:SAIA) is a less-than-truckload provider of regional, interregional and guaranteed services covering 34 states. Saia is home to the industry-leading Xtreme Guarantee product, which guarantees total customer satisfaction from pick-up through invoicing. Saia offers complete North American coverage through partner agreements. With headquarters in Johns Creek, GA and a network of 148 terminals, the carrier employs 7,400 people. For more information on Saia, visit the Saia Website at www.saia.com.