Two Mid-Missourians are among the four students from Missouri's 3rd Congressional District who have been honored with the prestigious J. William Fulbright scholarship, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer said Tuesday.
He said awards are in "recognition of their academic excellence and a deep understanding of national security and foreign affairs issues."
The four recipients are: Ashley Schwarzer, of Jefferson City; Dr. Allison Kabel, of Fulton; Joseph Meinert, of New Haven; and Erin Lee, of O'Fallon.
Each year, Luetkemeyer noted in a news release, 3,000 students and professionals in more than 100 different fields are offered Fulbright Program grants to go to approximately 140 countries, to lecture, study, teach English and conduct various types of research.
"Each year, 3,000 students and professionals across the country are awarded the Fulbright scholarship," Luetkemeyer said in the release. "These individuals have displayed the ultimate knowledge of national security and foreign policy issues and, through the program, are able to help foster relationships between the United States and other nations around the world.
"I wish them the best of luck during their year-long visits to their host countries and I know they will each make Missouri proud."
Over the years, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 370,000 participants - chosen for their academic and leadership potential - with the opportunity to exchange ideas and to help find solutions to international concerns.