Reception for "Gifted Hands" Neurosurgeon Ben Carson and his Wife,

Candy Benefits Scholarship Fund for D.C. Students

June 3, 1999

On Wednesday, June 2 at 6 p.m., Washington malpractice lawyer Jack H. Olender hosted a reception for renowned neurosurgeon Ben Carson and his wife, Candy to raise funds for an unusual scholarship program aimed at rewarding academic excellence.

"The Carson Scholars Fund will give college grants to District of Columbia students as early as the 4th grade who have outstanding academic records and are role models for other students," said Jack Olender, a member of the Fund's Board of Directors. "The Fund will hold each student scholarship grant in trust until the recipient enrolls in a four year institution of higher learning. Winners who maintain a high level of academic performance may apply for additional scholarships from the Carson Fund."

Dr. Ben Carson is director of pediatric neurosurgery at The Johns Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore. He has attracted worldwide attention for his lifesaving surgery on many children, including German Siamese twins who were joined at the head. Raised is poverty, Ben Carson was once an academic underachiever. Thanks to his mother's encouragement, he eventually rose from the bottom of his class to the top. His achievements earned him academic scholarships to college and medical school. He is the author of several books, including Gifted Hands, THINK BIG, and The Big Picture. Dr. Carson is recipient of the Generous Heart Award of the Olender Foundation, headed by Jack and Lovell Olender.