It's been exactly six months since freepali.com has launched.  As one of the main focuses of the website was to raise awareness regarding the Palestinian cause, the idea of the scholarship was established to encourage students to actively work to this end.  Well, the time has arrived and it is with such pleasure that freepali.com is able to present the first scholarship to Rana Abdelqader.

After reviewing the applications, verifying information and contacting references, I was most impressed by the reference one of Rana's professors provided.  In speaking to the Professor, who also served as a faculty representative to a Middle Eastern Solidarity organization Rana established on campus, I was sold on her dedication to the cause.  She described the work Rana has committed herself to and her perseverence as she has regularly been confronted by obstacles.  Even in situations when the Professor was concerned about reactions (or shall I say retaliation) from the opposition and understanding that Rana was working solo, Rana's dedication did not waiver.  Key word,  'solo'.  Rana's drive and determination in working for such a great cause both on and off campus should make us all proud and she should serve as an example to us all.

Thank you to Rana for making us proud!

I would also like to thank all of the visitors to freepali.com for their support in visiting the site, adding themselves to the mailing list, making purchases and sharing the site with others.  

Ihsan