Alexandria, Va., High School Graduate Wins Robert G. Porter Scholarship

CHICAGO – Laura Murray, a 2008 graduate of Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria, Va., is one of four highly accomplished high school seniors to receive the Robert G. Porter Scholarship awarded by the American Federation of Teachers.

Each year, the AFT presents an $8,000 scholarship to each of four outstanding high school seniors who are the children of AFT members. Recipients must show outstanding service to their community and plan to pursue a career in labor, education, health or government service. The AFT will recognize the recipients during the union’s biennial national convention, held July 11-14 in Chicago.

Active in her community, Murray participated on her high school’s academic team, was a violinist in the school’s orchestra, and was editor of the school literary magazine. Of her orchestra experience, Murray said in her application, “I take my position as a role model seriously, with the intention of contributing to the future of bright musicians. Orchestra also gives me the opportunity to express myself creatively, without the verbal limitations applied in other subjects.” She also volunteered as a teaching assistant at the Island Creek Elementary School Drama Club and as a teacher for her church’s Sunday school.

The Robert G. Porter Scholars Program is named in honor of the late secretary-treasurer of the AFT, who served for more than 30 years. Porter was known for his commitment to improving the quality of public education and public service.

Murray’s mother, Patricia Murray, is a member of the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers.

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