The Foot Locker Foundation announced the launch of its 2015-2016 Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program, now in its fifth consecutive edition. The program awards 20 000 US dollars college scholarships to outstanding student athletes who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and strong leadership skills in sports, school and within their communities. 

This year, the Foundation also announced the Ken C. Hicks Scholarship, which will be awarded to one of the 20 students selected, in honor of the organization's former Chairman and CEO “who played an instrumental role in the development of the program”.  The scholarship recognizes Mr. Hicks commitment to academic excellence and will award an additional 5 000 US dollars to one extraordinary student who exemplifies elevated academic achievement, personal passion, and a true love of the game. 

"We are very pleased to enhance our Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program this year with the addition of the Ken C. Hicks scholarship, underscoring our company's deep commitment to academic excellence", stated Richard A. Johnson, President and CEO of Foot Locker, Inc., adding: "The program strives to make a college education, and the benefits associated with it, a reality for hard-working students who have exhibited an outstanding potential for leadership. Our goal is to empower young adults who demonstrate strong initiative both in their team locker rooms and in their classrooms and communities."

Applicants must be college-bound in the Fall of 2016, be an active participant in a sports-related activity, and maintain at least a 3.0 unweighted GPA.  Participants will be required to submit two essays and one recommendation to be considered for the scholarship.  Students can apply online or be nominated by teachers, coaches, mentors, family and friends by visiting footlockerscholarathletes.com. Applications close on the 17th of December.

The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program is a part of the Foot Locker Foundation, the charitable arm of Foot Locker, Inc., which provides monetary support for educational and sports programs across the country.