FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 26, 2004
Contact: Michael Corby
904.632.3310

Scott-McRae Automotive/Duval dealerships fund $100,000 endowed scholarship
Benefiting automotive students at Florida Community College at Jacksonville

The Duval Family of Dealerships, part of the Scott-McRae Group, has agreed to contribute $100,000 in endowed scholarship funds to Florida Community College at Jacksonville over the course of four years. In doing so, they become one of the first donors to the College’s first major gift campaign. Twenty-five thousand dollars was donated in August, and an additional $25,000 donation will be made each August over the next three years.

Once fully funded, the Walter McRae Endowed Scholarship will provide financial aid to eight McRae Scholar automotive students, in perpetuity, for Florida Community College’s Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair program. This program yields a certificate to those who complete the program—and an opportunity to work and earn while training. Salaries for these certified technicians start around $25,000, with the potential to reach about $80,000 annually. Applications are now being accepted for Spring term.

“This is a tremendous gift to our students, and the community as well,” said College President Steven Wallace. “It will give the students who qualify for the scholarships the chance to achieve a high-paying, in-demand career, with opportunities for financial and career advancement.”

The Walter McRae Endowed Scholarship continues the Scott-McRae Group’s tradition of giving back to the community, and honors Walter McRae Jr.

"Quality people have been a hallmark of this company since 1916. Today, we continue our efforts to attract and retain the very best people in our respective industries,” said David Hodges, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Scott-McRae Group.

“The Walter McRae Endowed Scholarship and our partnership with Florida Community College is an exciting opportunity to help qualified students excel in their field and uphold the company's commitment to give back to the community where we work and live,” said Hodges.

The Scott-McRae Group has a history of creating value for their customers, employees and the communities they serve. The Scott-McRae Group is Jacksonville's largest family-owned automotive business. Since its founding in 1916 the company has grown to include Duval Ford, Duval Honda and Duval Acura (in Duval County); plus Brandon Honda, Tampa Honda Land, U.S. Auto Credit, Autolease, Spectrum Services, Matrix Data Solutions and Scott-McRae Advertising

For information about criteria for becoming a McRae Scholar, or for information about Florida Community College automotive programs call 904.633.8334.