Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund Marks 40 Years of Investing in Students

The Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund (ADLSF) is celebrating 40 years of giving! The Machinery Dealers National Association considers the ADLSF the “Heart of the Association.” Through it we have assisted countless students, giving them the opportunity to meet their educational goals.
 
The scholarship program was founded in 1983 to provide tuition assistance to children whose parents are employed by MDNA member firms. Since its inception, the Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund has awarded over 1,490 scholarships totaling $2,038,500.  
 
These funds have made a real difference for hundreds of students and their families, easing the burden of college or trade school tuition and paving the way for a brighter future. Many recipients are first-generation college students.
 
“The Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund is my passion,” said Kristine Conroy, president of the Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund. “I really feel that the Fund is the best thing MDNA does. It changes student lives and is a real benefit that owners can give directly to their employees.”
 
Funded by donations from MDNA dealers, the fund is actually comprised of many Trusts, each totaling $5000. “Any time someone makes a donation,” said Kristine, “it goes toward a Trust. These Trusts provide a lasting legacy and are established in honor or memory of someone or in support of this worthy cause. Trusts can be established over a period of time or through a one-time donation. Some members give monthly until they reach the $5,000 goal.”
 
In celebration of 40 Years of Giving, we are inviting members to pledge to start a Trust this year. Members, groups of members, and companies are encouraged to join the “40 for 40” goal of having 40 pledges!
 
Donations aren’t the only way that MDNA helps build this fund. We also host a yearly fundraiser through the Ray Roberts Raffle. MDNA members make a $100 contribution and have a chance to win $10,000! There are also prizes of $2,000, $1,500 and $1,000. Only 300 tickets are sold, so you have a great chance to win! Tickets are available through your local MDNA chapter.
 
Through all these means, along with careful stewardship, the Austin D. Lucas Scholarship Fund is proud to give students the opportunity to go to trade school or college and to learn, grow, and make a difference in the world.
 

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