Mentis Foundation Awards Scholarships to Dyslexic Students

Founder's Afghanistan Hazard Pay Funds Eight Students with Learning Disability

GREENWICH, Conn., April 23, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Mentis Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about dyslexia and supporting underprivileged youth with this learning disability, announced the winners of eight scholarships awarded to outstanding young students with dyslexia.  These scholarships were funded from the hazard pay founder Will Gregory earned while serving in Afghanistan.

"As someone who struggled with dyslexia growing up, I understand firsthand the obstacles this learning disability presents and the issues these students face. The kids we are recognizing are incredible individuals who are overcoming these challenges and will no doubt have a profound impact on the world," stated Will Gregory, the founder of The Mentis Foundation.

The Mentis Foundation began operation in 2009 prior to Gregory's joining the Department of Defense.  Following his return from Helmand Province, he created the Mentis Scholarship fund to enhance the educational opportunities of dyslexic students in need of financial assistance.

"The time I spent in Afghanistan only increased my desire to serve my community and country.  When I returned home, I could think of no better way to do this than by contributing the money from my hazard pay to help bright and passionate students. My hope is that these scholarships will create new opportunities for these eight fantastic students," Gregory continued.

Awardees of the Mentis Scholarships represent four schools and age groups including elementary, middle, high school and college levels. The winners include:

• Oliver La Du – Eagle Hill School (Greenwich, CT)
• Robert Parisi  – Eagle Hill School (Greenwich, CT)
• Sam G. – Linden High School (Northfield, MA)
• Sasha W. – Linden High School (Northfield, MA)
• Izer Martinez – The Gow School (South Wales, NY)
• Owen Peet– The Gow School (South Wales, NY)
• Shannondoah Reardon – Landmark College (Putney, VT)
• Khalil Parker– Landmark College (Putney, VT)

The Mentis Foundation welcomes support from others to provide scholarships and support to bright dyslexic students in need of assistance. To learn more about the Foundation and its work, please visit http://www.mentisfoundation.org.

For more information about the Mentis Foundation or to schedule an interview with Will Gregory, please contact Dan Rene of Levick Strategic Communications at 202-973-1325 or [email protected]

CONTACT: Dan Rene, Levick Strategic Communications, +1-202-973-1325, [email protected]

SOURCE Mentis Foundation