Salem Animal Rescue League Launches Annual Scholarship

By D.J. Bettancourt

Salem Animal Rescue League development and community relations director

The Salem Animal Rescue League (SARL) announced Thursday the creation of The Hayes Scholarship, which will be awarded each year to a high school student who is pursuing an education related to animal or veterinary sciences in their college career.

“Attaining a college level education is critically important for students and we are excited to offer some assistance to those who are pursuing a career caring for the physical welfare of animals,” said SARL Board President Martha Adamovich. 

The scholarship worth $500 is established in honor of Valorie Hayes,  a long-time member of SARL’s Board of Directors who served for many years as its Director of Marketing and Community Relations. Over the years, the dedication and support of the Hayes family has been vital to SARLs growth and its ability to expand services to the community.

“There is a tremendous need for dedicated and compassionate animal caregivers and that need is only going to grow. SARL feels these scholarships are an investment in a future generation of veterinary health professionals. While the cost of higher education is significant, we hope this scholarship serves as incentive to young veterinary hopefuls. Given Valorie’s commitment to education and the medical care of homeless animals, it is entirely appropriate that we name to these scholarships for her and we are grateful that she has accepted this honor,” said SARL Development and Community Relations Director D.J. Bettencourt

Interested students from high schools in Rockingham County and the Merrimack Valley region can apply for the scholarships on SARL’s website or pick up an application at their high school. Generally, the student should be interested in animal sciences, pre-veterinary programs, veterinary technology, or a related field. Applications can begin being submitted on September 9, 2013 and the deadline will be April 11, 2014.