Student fundraising for tuition to Harvard

RUMFORD -- Mountain Valley High School junior Renee Knox has been accepted to a prestigious program at Harvard University. During the summer, she will take two courses alongside college and adult learners. Distinguished Harvard professors teach the courses.

Knox said, “I’m thrilled about the opportunity to attend classes at Harvard. I’ll earn college credit before I even get to college and it’s a great chance to see what college life is really like.”

She plans to take Introduction to Psychology and perhaps a course called The Aging Mind and Body.

Unfortunately, Harvard courses are not free. The total cost for tuition, room and board is $10,370.

“I have applied for financial aid but I won’t have an answer until mid-April,” explained Knox . “I have to have all the money in by May 21. I can’t wait until mid April to start fundraising.”

Knox lives with her aunt, Sheri Bloor, in Mexico. Her parents do not support her financially. She began a letter-writing campaign several weeks ago but has not heard from local businesses yet.

In addition to her letters, Knox has turned to technology to get the word out and solicit contributions. She developed a Facebook page called Renee’s Harvard Fund. So far, she has 52 likes and has raised $120 via this technology.

“I would be grateful for contributions or ideas for fundraising,” concluded Knox. “Please e-mail me at rknox@rsu10.org.”