Every year, more than 700 students apply to become Dedman Distinguished Scholars at The University of Texas at Austin. They rank in the top 5 percent of their class, make exceptional SAT scores, and participate in exemplary extracurricular and volunteer activities.

After the interview process, only 5 to 8 scholars are chosen by the selection committee each year.

One of the most enthusiastic members of the committee is Nancy Dedman herself. "My motive for getting involved in the interview process is actually personal gratification," she acknowledges with a laugh. "It's so inspirational to talk to those students. Every one of them is a super kid. It makes me feel better about the future of this nation."

The Dedman scholarship program, which offers an enriched academic experience, has enabled UT Austin to compete with Harvard, Stanford, and Rice for the best students in the country.

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