Rent-to-own News - APRO Scholarship winner accepted to Auburn University

Evan Carter Howell isn't one to tread lightly into post-secondary education.

Evan Carter Howell

Now entering his fourth semester at Faulkner State Community College, and assisted by an APRO scholarship, Howell received an acceptance letter from Auburn University last week. Realization of that goal will power the 19-year old through his final semester at Faulkner State, that and the second half of his $1,500 APRO Scholarship.

One of four scholarship winners last year, Howell earned a 3.875 GPA this fall, securing the second half of his scholarship.

"I would not have been able to afford tuition this semester without this help from APRO," Howell said. "This has really given me a great opportunity."

And he's not slowing down either.

He's signed up for a whopping 22 hours of coursework this spring all in pursuit of his final goal of earning a BA in Business Administration with a minor in Spanish. Oh yeah, he also works 40 hours a week cooking and washing dishes at a local restaurant near Mobile, Alabama. He's learned the F.B.I. puts a premium on hiring smart go-getters, preferring bi-lingual business majors.

His mother, formerly an accounts payable representative for Rent-A-Center corporate in Plano, Texas -- and a die hard Crimson Tide Fan -- may have to change her allegiance, but it's a small price to pay for the pride she has for her son.

"I was always interested in what he's doing, what he was interested in in school and other activities," said Patricia Enriquez who retired from Rent-A-Center last year to help care for her two pre-school aged grandchildren. "I greatly appreciate this scholarship and APRO for making it possible. It's been a tremendous help to him."

The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations last year for the first time awarded multiple scholarships to four students. The opportunity was made possible after the non-profit APRO Scholarship Foundation reached its initial fundraising goal of $100,000.

“This is what these scholarships are all about," said APRO Public Affairs Director Richard May. "Helping the rent-to-own family reach greater heights. Whether Evan pursues a career in the FBI, rent to own or beyond, he now has the tools and resources to follow his dreams."

For more information on the APRO Scholarship Foundation and application information go here or contact Richard May, APRO public affairs director at 512/794-0095 Ext. 104 or by email at rmay@rtohq.org.