2010 Don Diego Fund college scholarship applications are available

DEL MAR, Calif. – Don Diego Fund scholarships of $5,000 each are available to outstanding college-bound, graduating high school seniors throughout San Diego County who have participated in the San Diego County Fair and/or other activities associated with the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Eligibility requirements and application forms are available at http://www.dondiegofund.org. Completed applications must be received no later than April 2, 2010. Questions should be directed to Executive Director Chana Mannen at [email protected] or (858) 792-4210.

According to Mannen, “In 2010, the Fund will award four $5,000 scholarships; one in each of the following categories, 4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA), employee at the Fair, Racetrack or Fairgrounds; and exhibitor at the Fair.”

She reports, “Our past recipients are excelling at colleges and careers across the nation. We invite donors to make an investment in both a student’s and the community’s future by establishing a scholarship in the name of a loved one or business or by contributing at whatever level is comfortable to them. Donors enjoy many elite Fairgrounds and Racetrack benefits.”

The Don Diego Fund is a nonprofit scholarship program of the San Diego County Fair. It was formed in 1986 as a lasting tribute to Tom Hernandez, who, in the role of Don Diego, served as the legendary goodwill ambassador of the Fair from 1947 until his death in 1984. To date, the Fund has awarded $513,000 in scholarships and grants, helping 121 students pursue higher education.