Penn National Gaming, Inc., on Wednesday unveiled the Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.
The company said its gift, a multi-year $100,000 commitment and scholarship program, will support the law school’s Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides financial assistance to veterans pursuing a juris doctor degree.
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, under which the Department of Veterans Affairs matches school aid contributions made to eligible veterans.
In recognition of the importance of service, Carey Law School said it has created a learning environment for students who seek a career in public service and supports the unique perspective of law students who have served in the military.
Harold Cramer was a member of the law school’s Class of 1951. Upon graduation, he was drafted into the US Army and was sent to Korea as a commissioned officer. He later attended the Judge Advocate General’s School and became the chief prosecutor for the Eighth Army in Korea. He was ultimately awarded the Bronze Star for his service, as well as the Korean Service Medal with three battle stars, the United Nations Korean Medal, National Defense Medal and twice received the Korean Presidential Unit Citation.
“The Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program underlines the law school’s continued commitment to support those who engaged in military service,” law school Dean Ted Ruger said in a statement. “Harold Cramer was a giant in his field, and I can think of no better way to honor his legacy by supporting veterans who desire to pursue a degree at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.”
Jay Snowden, president and CEO of Penn National Gaming, added: “We are proud to establish the Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program in honor of one of Penn National Gaming’s original and most beloved board members. As a distinguished veteran, past president of the law school’s Alumni Society and a longtime generous benefactor to the law school, Harold would have loved this program, which will enable other young veterans to pursue a law degree at his alma mater.”
Snowden said that supporting the nation’s heroes is a personal passion of his, and it is one of Penn National’s top priorities, which extends to its recruitment efforts, team member recognition and ongoing charitable and community support. In addition to the Harold Cramer Memorial Scholarship Program, he noted earlier this year Penn National launched the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, which connects veterans, service members and military spouses with meaningful employment opportunities.
“We are committed to identifying and hiring full-time team members through this program to further unite the military community with our company in order to create economic opportunity and a stronger, more diversified workforce,” Snowden added. “Penn National is proud to spotlight our team members who served in the military through heart-of-house Honor Wall displays and in our company newsletter.”
