The Florida Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association (USHWA) has announced two candidates who will receive awards this year from the 2021 Allen J. Finkelson Scholarship program.

The scholarship was established in memory of Hall of Famer Allen J. Finkelson, the former Vice President of Public Relations at Pompano Park and longtime Chairman of the Board of the national USHWA organization.

“Cayla Ray Smith and Sarah Clein will each receive scholarship funds from our USHWA Chapter,” said committee chair Thomas H. Hicks. “They are both outstanding students.”

Preference for these scholarship awards were given to a student(s) majoring in journalism, communications or equine related studies. Applicants must be a resident of the state of Florida and currently accepted or enrolled in a fully accredited college or university in the United States. Criteria for selection include community service, academic achievement and leadership.

Cayla Ray Smith is a Senior at the University of Florida (UF) in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Smith has a 3.9 GPA. She previously earned an Associates Degree from St. John’s River State College, graduating Magnum Cum Laude. She is also an FFA judge, US lab assistant and student manager of UF softball.

Sarah Clein of Wellington is a Sophomore at UF majoring in communication and journalism. Clein has a 3.79 GPA. She is a Wellington HS and Palm Beach State graduate (GPA 4.0) that has led Bricks Busting Boredom and Aaron’s Ipad Lending Library activities. Clein has also participated in UF’s Summer Media Institute and is a Mr Brother and Sister’s Keeper award winner.

For more information about the Florida Chapter of USHWA and the Allen J. Finkelson Scholarship, visit ushwa-florida.com or the Facebook page Florida Chapter USHWA.

(Florida Chapter of USHWA)