Last night, Woodbridge Senior High School senior Victoria Lafranchise won one of two annual $1,000 merit scholarships the Prince William Art Society gives to county high school seniors. 

The Jewell Pratt Burns Scholarship, named for a longstanding member of the society, was given by its namesake to Lafranchise and Julia Moore of Forest Park High School during a special program. For the past five years, the Prince William Art Society has awarded two annual $1,000 merit scholarships to Prince William County area high school seniors.

In addition to monetary funds, the two seniors received a certificate, a framed copy of one selected piece from their submission portfolio, and a one-year membership to the society. 

In a succinct speech addressed to program attendees, Pratt Burns commented that it was a pleasure “to honor two high school seniors who want to further their education in the arts.”

This year’s recipients are bound for Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, where they intend to study art.

“I’m looking forward to go school and pursue an artistic career,” Moore said.

Equally enthusiastic about her college years ahead, Lafranchise joked that she and Moore could take classes together in the fall.

The Prince William Art Society raises funds for its scholarships year-round through the sale of boxed note cards showcasing members' artwork.

Cards can be viewed and purchased here.