Penn National Gaming has established the Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, which it says has been done in honour of one its “original and most beloved board members”.
The gift, which is a multi-year $100,000 commitment and scholarship program, will support the Law School’s Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides financial assistance to veterans pursuing a Juris Doctor degree.
Jay Snowden, president and CEO of Penn National Gaming, said: “As a distinguished veteran, past president of the Law School’s Alumni Society and a long-time generous benefactor to the Law School, Harold would have loved this program which will enable other young veterans to pursue a law degree at his Alma Mater.”
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, under which the Department of Veterans Affairs matches school aid contributions made to eligible veterans.
In recognition of the importance of service, the Law School has created a learning environment for students who seek a career in public service and supports the unique perspective of law students who have served in the military. It provides support to students making the transition from military to civilian life, and encourages those with service backgrounds to apply.
“The Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program underlines the Law School’s continued commitment to support those who engaged in military service,” noted Ted Ruger, Law School dean.
“Harold Cramer was a giant in his field, and I can think of no better way to honour his legacy by supporting veterans who desire to pursue a degree at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.”
Cramer was a member of the Law School’s Class of 1951. Upon graduation, he was drafted into the US Army and was sent to Korea as a commissioned officer. He later attended the Judge Advocate General’s School and became the chief prosecutor for the Eighth Army in Korea.
He was ultimately awarded the Bronze Star for his service, as well as the Korean Service Medal with three battle stars, the United Nations Korean Medal, National Defense Medal and twice received the Korean Presidential Unit Citation.
“Supporting our nation’s heroes is a personal passion of mine and it’s one of our company’s top priorities, which extends to our recruitment efforts, team member recognition and ongoing charitable and community support,” added Snowden.
“In addition to the Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program, earlier this year we launched the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s ‘Hiring Our Heroes’ initiative, which connects veterans, service members, and military spouses with meaningful employment opportunities.
“We are committed to identifying and hiring full-time team members through this program to further unite the military community with our company in order to create economic opportunity and a stronger, more diversified workforce.”
