Winner of the First Annual Political Animals Scholarship

Cyrus Bahrassa, student body President of Little Rock Central High School, was awarded the first annual Political Animals Scholarship at a PAC lunch meeting at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion.  Governor Mike Beebe presented the award to Central High Principal Nancy Rousseau, who accepted the award on Cyrus’ behalf.  Cyrus was in St. Louis visiting Washington University.  Mr. Bahrassa is receiving a $1,000 scholarship to the college or university of his choosing. Mr. Bahrassa, a National Merit Finalist, will soon choose between several universities to which he’s been accepted, including Princeton, Yale, Washington University, Northwestern, Vanderbilt, and the University of North Carolina.  He intends to study aviation and astrophysics in college.

Mr. Bahrassa delivered an inspiring address on behalf of the current student body at the 50^th Anniversary of the Desegregation of Central High School.  In his speech he said, “Little from 1957 can be forgiven; nothing should be forgotten.” 

In January 2008, the Political Animals Club of Little Rock announced the formation of the Political Animals Scholarship fund in honor of the 25^th anniversary of the club.  The scholarship competition was conducted among student body Presidents from Little Rock public high schools and criteria for selection included potential to serve the people of Arkansas in elected public office, community and public service, school participation and academic achievement.  Over $10,600 has been raised to date for the new scholarship fund.  Special thanks to all club members who generously donated to the fund!  And special thanks to Heather Eason and the Arkansas Community Foundation who administers the scholarship fund on our behalf.  In future years, we hope to expand the scope of the competition to include more school districts in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pulaski County.  Congratulations to Cyrus Bahrassa and Central High School!