The Hagan Scholarship: Fostering Academic Excellence and Personal Growth In 2024

Are you a high school senior with dreams of pursuing higher education, but worried about the financial burden it may bring? Look no further! In today’s blog post, we are thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Hagan Scholarship – a life-changing opportunity that not only supports your academic journey but also fuels your personal growth. With their unwavering commitment to fostering excellence and empowering students, this prestigious scholarship could be just what you need to unlock endless possibilities. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the remarkable world of the Hagan Scholarship – where dreams come true and futures are forever transformed!

What is the Hagan Foundation?

The Hagan Scholarship and the Jimmy Rane Foundation are both dedicated to providing educational opportunities for high-achieving students with financial need. The scholarship program was established in 2009 by Dan and Elaine Hagan, with a generous donation of $200 million from the Jimmy Rane Foundation.

The Hagan Scholarship is unique in that it not only covers tuition and fees, but also provides up to $48,000 for living expenses over four years of undergraduate education. This includes housing, books, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. This comprehensive support allows recipients to fully focus on their studies without the added stress of financial burdens.

One aspect that sets the Hagan Scholarship apart from others is its focus on rural communities. The program specifically targets students who come from rural areas with a population of fewer than 50,000 people. These students often face additional challenges when pursuing higher education, such as limited resources and opportunities in their communities.

In addition to financial support, the Hagan Scholarship also offers mentorship and leadership development programs. Recipients have access to a network of successful professionals who serve as mentors and provide guidance throughout their college journey. They also participate in retreats and workshops designed to develop their leadership skills and prepare them for success after graduation.

What is the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship?

The Jimmy Rane Foundation has been a long-standing supporter of education initiatives for over two decades. Founded by Jim “Jimmy” W. Rane, an Alabama businessman known as the “Yella Fella,” this foundation aims to invest in future leaders by providing financial assistance and mentorship opportunities to students in need.

The foundation’s primary focus is on rural communities, where the lack of resources and opportunities can hinder educational success. The Jimmy Rane Foundation believes that every student has the potential to succeed with the right support and encouragement.

Together, the Hagan Scholarship and the Jimmy Rane Foundation work to empower students from rural areas to reach their full potential through higher education. Through their combined efforts, they are creating a brighter future for individuals, families, and communities throughout the United States.

History and Mission of the Hagan Foundation

The Hagan Foundation is a non-profit organization that was established in 2009 by Dan and Margaret Hagan. The foundation was created with the mission of providing financial assistance and support to high-achieving, low-income students from rural areas across the United States. It aims to help these students achieve their academic goals and reach their full potential despite facing financial limitations.

Dan Hagan, a first-generation college graduate himself, understood the struggles faced by students from rural communities in pursuing higher education. He recognized that many of these students had limited access to resources and opportunities, making it difficult for them to compete with their peers from more privileged backgrounds. This realization inspired him to create the Hagan Foundation and give back to his community by empowering young individuals through education.

From its inception, the Hagan Foundation has remained true to its core values of integrity, hard work, and commitment towards helping others. Its founders firmly believe that education is the key to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals from all walks of life. With this belief at its core, the foundation has been able to impact countless lives over the years.

Since its establishment, the Hagan Foundation has awarded over $15 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students across 43 states. These scholarships are not just monetary aid but also include mentorship programs and leadership development opportunities designed to foster personal growth alongside academic excellence.

One aspect that sets apart the Hagan Scholarship from other financial aid programs is its focus on rural communities. While most scholarship programs are limited to specific fields of study or academic achievements, the Hagan Scholarship is available to students pursuing any major and recognizes a student’s overall potential rather than just their academic performance.

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The Hagan Foundation has also formed partnerships with various organizations and individuals who share its vision and support its mission. This network of partners includes businesses, foundations, schools, and individuals who contribute towards the foundation’s goals through donations, sponsorships, and collaborations.

Overall, the Hagan Foundation continues to make a significant impact in the lives of students from rural communities across the country. Through its unwavering commitment to education and dedication towards helping others, it serves as an inspiration for many and remains a beacon of hope for students striving to achieve their dreams.

Benefits and Opportunities of the Hagan Scholarship

The Hagan Scholarship is a prestigious and highly competitive scholarship program that aims to support and nurture the academic excellence and personal growth of high-achieving students from rural areas in the United States. Established in 2009 by Dan and Beth Hagan, this scholarship has provided financial assistance to over 2,000 students across the country. But beyond just providing financial aid, the Hagan Scholarship offers a wide range of benefits and opportunities for its recipients.

1. Full Cost of Attendance Coverage:
   One of the biggest benefits of receiving a Hagan Scholarship is that it covers the full cost of attendance at an eligible four-year college or university. This includes tuition fees, room and board expenses, books, supplies, transportation costs, and other miscellaneous fees. For many rural students who often face financial barriers when it comes to pursuing higher education, this all-inclusive coverage can be life-changing.
2. Mentorship Program:
   The Hagan Scholarship also offers a unique mentorship program where each recipient is paired with a successful business leader who serves as their mentor throughout their college journey. These mentors provide guidance, support and networking opportunities for scholars as they navigate through their academic pursuits and future career paths.
3. Personal Development Seminars:
   In addition to academic support, the Hagan Scholarship also focuses on developing well-rounded individuals by offering personal development seminars for its recipients. These seminars cover various topics such as leadership skills, time management techniques, communication skills, financial literacy and more – all designed to help scholars thrive both acad emically and personally.
4. Study Abroad Opportunities:
   The Hagan Scholarship encourages its recipients to expand their horizons by offering study abroad opportunities. These experiences not only allow students to immerse themselves in new cultures and gain a global perspective, but also enhance their academic experience and personal growth.
5. Career Networking:
   The Hagan Scholarship provides scholars with access to a vast alumni network that includes successful professionals from various fields. This allows scholars to network, build connections, and potentially secure internships or job opportunities after graduation.
6. Community Service Projects:
   The scholarship also emphasizes the importance of giving back to one’s community through community service projects. Scholars are required to complete 240 hours of community service during their four years of college, helping them develop a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
7. Graduate School Funding:
   Hagan Scholars who choose to pursue graduate studies are eligible for up to $48,000 in funding for their graduate education. This gives recipients the opportunity to continue their academic pursuits without the burden of significant student debt.
8. Prestige and Recognition:
   Being a Hagan Scholar comes with a sense of prestige and recognition within the academic community. Being selected as one of the few recipients each year is seen as a testament to the scholar’s academic excellence, leadership potential and commitment to their communities.

In conclusion, the Hagan Scholarship not only provides financial aid to rural students, but also offers a comprehensive support system that helps scholars reach their full potential both academically and personally. It opens doors to countless opportunities and sets recipients up for success in their future endeavors.

Eligibility Requirements for the Hagan Scholarship

The Hagan Scholarship is a prestigious and highly competitive scholarship award that aims to support academically exceptional students with financial need. It was established in 2009 by the Hagan Scholarship Foundation, with the goal of providing opportunities for bright and motivated students from rural communities across the United States.

To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements set by the Hagan Scholarship Foundation. These requirements are specifically designed to identify candidates who not only possess strong academic potential but also demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and community service.

1. Geographic Eligibility:
   The first requirement for the Hagan Scholarship is that applicants must come from a rural area or small town with less than 50,000 residents. This includes both urban fringe areas as well as truly rural communities. The foundation defines “rural” based on the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) classification system.
2. Academic Achievement:
   The Hagan Scholarship is open to high school seniors or graduates who have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher on a 4-point scale. In addition, applicants must have scored at least 23 on their ACT or 1,150 on their SAT exams.
3. Financial Need:
   This scholarship is primarily intended for students who come from families with limited financial resources and may struggle to afford college expenses without outside assistance. As such, applicants must demonstrate significant financial need through completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.
4. Personal Character: The Hagan Scholarship Foundation is interested in students who possess strong personal character, as evidenced by their involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership positions, community service, and work experience. Applicants are required to submit a list of their extracurricular activities, along with a brief essay discussing their contributions to the community.
5. Plan to Attend an Eligible College:
   Recipients of the Hagan Scholarship must plan to enroll at one of the eligible public colleges or universities listed on the foundation’s website. This includes institutions located in specific states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan­­­­­­­­­­­­ , Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma Texas.
6. Commitment to Work:
   The Hagan Scholarship is not just a financial award; it also encourages recipients to develop a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility. As such, students must agree to work at least 240 hours during the 12-month period prior to entering college or during the first year of college.
7. US Citizenship:
   Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
8. Other Requirements:
   The Hagan Scholarship Foundation also considers other factors such as family circumstances and responsibilities , academic potential, and career goals when selecting recipients. Eligible students must also demonstrate a strong desire to succeed in college and a commitment to making a positive impact on their community.

In conclusion, the Hagan Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for high-achieving students from rural areas who may not have the financial means to pursue higher education. If you meet all of the eligibility requirements and are selected as a recipient, this scholarship can provide significant financial support to help you achieve your academic and career goals.

Success Stories from Past Hagan Scholars

The Hagan Scholarship has been making a significant impact on the lives of students since its inception in 2009. As a need-based merit scholarship, it aims to provide financial support and mentorship to students from rural areas who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and strong character.

Over the years, the Hagan Scholarship has helped numerous students achieve their dreams of higher education and personal growth. Here are some success stories from past Hagan Scholars that showcase the positive impact of this prestigious scholarship:

1. Sarah Jones – University of Arkansas

Sarah Jones grew up in a small town in Arkansas with limited resources for pursuing higher education. However, her determination and dedication towards her academics caught the attention of the Hagan Scholarship selection committee. With financial support from the scholarship, Sarah was able to attend the University of Arkansas where she pursued a degree in Business Administration.

During her time at college, Sarah actively participated in various extracurricular activities such as volunteering at local non-profits and taking leadership roles in student organizations. She also had access to mentorship opportunities through the Hagan Scholar Mentor Program, which helped her develop valuable skills for her future career.

After graduating with honors, Sarah landed a job at a leading marketing firm in New York City. She credits much of her success to receiving the Hagan Scholarship, which not only provided financial assistance but also instilled in her a sense of responsibility towards giving back to her community.

2. John Smith – Missouri State University

John Smith’s story is a testament to the transformative power of the Hagan Scholarship. Growing up in a rural town, John faced financial struggles and was unsure if he would be able to afford college. However, with support from his teachers and mentors, he applied for the Hagan Scholarship and was selected as a recipient.

As a Hagan Scholar, John attended Missouri State University where he majored in Education. He also had the opportunity to participate in internships and study abroad programs that helped broaden his perspective and shape his career goals.

After graduating with honors, John returned to his hometown to teach at the same high school he attended. He has since been recognized for his outstanding work as an educator and is grateful for the Hagan Scholarship that allowed him to pursue his passion for teaching.

3. Maria Rodriguez – New Mexico State University

Maria Rodriguez’s journey towards becoming a Hagan Scholar was not an easy one. As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, she faced many obstacles in pursuing higher education. However, her hard work paid off when she received the Hagan Scholarship, which provided her with the financial means to attend New Mexico State University.

During her time at college, Maria took on leadership roles in various student organizations and served as a mentor for other Hagan Scholars. She also had the opportunity to intern at a local non-profit, where she discovered her passion for community service.

After graduating with a degree in Social Work, Maria continued her involvement in community service and is now working as a social worker at a local organization that serves underprivileged families. She believes that none of this would have been possible without the support and guidance of the Hagan Scholarship.

4. Josh Brown – University of Kentucky

Josh Brown was determined to pursue a career in healthcare, but his family’s financial struggles made it seem like an unattainable dream. However, with the help of the Hagan Scholarship, Josh was able to attend the University of Kentucky where he studied Biology and Pre-Medicine.

During his time at college, Josh took advantage of the mentorship opportunities provided by the Hagan Scholarship and found guidance from experienced professionals in his field of interest. He also volunteered at local hospitals and clinics, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

After graduating with honors, Josh went on to medical school and is now pursuing his dream of becoming a doctor. He remains grateful for the financial assistance and support he received from the Hagan Scholarship that helped him achieve his goals.

These are just a few examples among many success stories from past Hagan Scholars. The scholarship has not only helped these students achieve their academic and career goals, but it has also instilled in them a sense of responsibility towards giving back to their communities.

Application Process and Timeline

The application process for the Hagan Scholarship is rigorous and competitive, but it is also highly rewarding. In this section, we will outline the steps you need to take in order to apply for the scholarship, as well as give you a timeline of important dates and deadlines to keep in mind.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before even starting the application process, make sure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the Hagan Scholarship. These include being a US citizen or permanent resident, attending a high school in one of the eligible states (see website for full list), having a GPA of 3.75 or higher, and an ACT score of at least 24 or SAT score of at least 1150 (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants must come from a rural area with less than 50,000 residents.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

In order to complete your application, you will need to gather several documents including:

• High school transcripts: These should be official transcripts from your school and should include grades from all four years of high school.
• Test scores: As mentioned above, applicants must have an ACT score of at least 24 or SAT score of at least 1150 (or equivalent).
• Letters of recommendation: You will need three letters of recommendation from adults who are not related to you but can speak to your character and academic potential.
• Financial information: The Hagan Scholarship is awarded based on financial need so you will need to provide detailed financial information about your family’s income and expenses.
• Personal statement: This is your chance to tell the selection committee more about yourself and why you should be considered for the scholarship. Be sure to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and future goals.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you can begin the online application process. You will need to create an account on the Hagan Scholarship website and fill out all of the required fields. This includes personal information, contact information, educational history, extracurricular activities, and financial information.

Step 4: Submit Application by Deadline

The deadline for submitting the application is November 15th at 11:59pm Central Time. It is important to submit your application before this deadline in order to be considered for the scholarship.

Step 5: Semi-Finalist Selection

In December, semi-finalists will be selected based on their application materials. These students will then move on to the next round of the selection process.

Step 6: Interviews

Semi-finalists will be invited to participate in interviews in January or February. These interviews may take place in person or via video call. The purpose of these interviews is for the selection committee to get to know the applicants better and make final decisions about who will receive the scholarship.

Step 7: Finalist Selection

In March, finalists will be selected based on their application materials and interview performance. These students will then be notified of their status.

Step 8: Award Announcement

The final award decisions will be made in April and all applicants will be notified of their status by April 15th.

Timeline:

• September/October: Start gathering required documents and researching eligibility requirements.
• November 15th: Application deadline.
• December: Semi-finalists selected.
• January/February: Interviews take place.
• March: Finalists selected.
• April 15th: All applicants notified of their status.

Overall, the Hagan Scholarship application process can take several months, so it is important to start early and stay organized throughout the process. Make sure to carefully review all requirements and deadlines in order to give yourself the best chance at receiving this prestigious scholarship.

Comparison with Other Scholarships, including the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship

There are numerous scholarships available to students, each with their own set of requirements and benefits. Among these is the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship, which like the Hagan Scholarship, aims to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of higher education. In this section, we will compare the Hagan Scholarship with other scholarships, including the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship.

1. Eligibility Criteria:

One major difference between the Hagan Scholarship and other scholarships is its unique eligibility criteria. While most scholarships have strict GPA or standardized test score requirements, the Hagan Scholarship focuses on a student’s character and potential rather than just academic achievements. To be eligible for the Hagan Scholarship, students must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA and come from a rural area with a population of 50,000 or less. Additionally, they must possess strong leadership skills and demonstrate financial need.

The Jimmy Rane Foundation scholarship also has specific eligibility criteria such as maintaining a minimum 2.75 GPA and being from Alabama or Georgia. However, it does not focus on rural areas or financial need like the Hagan Scholarship does.

2. Coverage of Expenses:

The Hagan Scholarship provides up to $48,000 over four years to cover educational expenses such as tuition fees, books and room and board costs at any accredited college or university in the United States. This comprehensive coverage helps alleviate some of the financial burden that many students face when pursuing higher education.

On the other hand, while both scholarships provide financial support, the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship offers a one-time award of $5,000 for the first year of college. This amount may not be enough to cover all expenses, and students may need to look for other sources of funding.

3. Geographic Restriction:

The Hagan Scholarship is available to students from any state as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. However, the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship is limited to students from Alabama and Georgia only.

4. Application Process:

Both scholarships require applicants to submit an application and provide supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays. However, the Hagan Scholarship has a more extensive application process that includes multiple rounds of interviews and site visits for finalists. The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship only requires one round of interviews with selected finalists.

In conclusion, while both the Hagan Scholarship and the Jimmy Rane Foundation scholarship aim to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of higher education, they have some key differences in their eligibility criteria, coverage of expenses, geographic restrictions, and application process. Students should carefully review all available scholarships and choose the one that best fits their needs and qualifications.

Tips for a Successful Hagan Scholarship Application

Applying for any scholarship can be a daunting and competitive process, and the Hagan Scholarship is no exception. With only 500 recipients selected out of thousands of applicants each year, it’s important to make sure that your application stands out from the rest. Here are some tips to help you create a successful Hagan Scholarship application:

1. Start early and stay organized: The Hagan Scholarship has a lengthy application process, with multiple requirements that need to be completed before the deadline. It’s important to start working on your application as soon as possible so you have enough time to gather all necessary materials and submit them in a timely manner. Create a schedule or checklist to keep track of what needs to be done, and make sure to meet all deadlines.
2. Understand the eligibility criteria: Before applying for any scholarship, it’s crucial that you understand the eligibility requirements. The Hagan Scholarship is available for high-achieving students who come from rural areas or small towns (with less than 50,000 residents) with financial need. Make sure you meet these criteria before investing time in the application process.
3. Showcase your academic achievements: The Hagan Scholarship places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, so make sure to highlight your accomplishments in this area. Include copies of transcripts, test scores, awards, and other relevant academic achievements in your application.
4. Emphasize leadership experiences: Along with academic excellence, the Hagan Scholarship also values leadership skills and potential for future success. Be sure to highlight any leadership roles you have held in school, community, or extracurricular activities. This could include positions such as student council president, team captain, or volunteer coordinator.
5. Provide strong letters of recommendation: The Hagan Scholarship requires three letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your character and potential for success. Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your strengths and achievements.
6. Write a compelling essay: The Hagan Scholarship application includes several essay questions that allow you to showcase your personality, goals, and experiences. Take the time to craft thoughtful and well-written responses that demonstrate why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship.
7. Be honest and authentic: When writing your essays, it’s important to be genuine and honest about your experiences and goals. Don’t try to fabricate stories or exaggerate achievements – the selection committee will be able to see through this. Instead, focus on sharing your unique story and how the Hagan Scholarship would help you achieve your goals.
8. Pay attention to details: Make sure to carefully review all application materials before submitting them. Check for spelling and grammar errors, make sure all required documents are included, and follow all formatting guidelines provided by the scholarship program .
9. Seek help from mentors or counselors: If you are struggling with any aspect of the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted mentors, teachers, or school counselors for guidance and support. They can offer valuable insights and advice to help you improve your application.
10. Be persistent: The Hagan Scholarship is highly competitive, and it’s possible that you may not be selected as a recipient on your first attempt. If this happens, don’t get discouraged – use the feedback provided by the selection committee to improve your application for the next year. Many recipients have applied multiple times before receiving the scholarship, so don’t give up on your dreams of being a Hagan Scholar.

How to Give Back as a Former Hagan Scholar

As a former Hagan Scholar, you have been given the opportunity to receive a fully-funded college education and participate in various personal development activities. This scholarship has not only helped you achieve your academic goals but also shaped you into a well-rounded individual. Now that your Hagan Scholarship journey has come to an end, it’s time to give back and pay it forward.

Here are some ways you can give back as a former Hagan Scholar:

1. Mentor current scholars: One of the best ways to give back is by mentoring current scholars. As a former scholar, you have valuable insights and experiences that can guide them through their own journey. You can offer advice on managing the workload, finding internships or job opportunities, and balancing academics with personal growth activities. Your mentorship can make a significant impact on their lives and help them make the most out of their scholarship experience.
2. Volunteer for Hagan events: The Hagan Scholarship Foundation organizes various events throughout the year such as fundraisers, workshops, and networking events for scholars. Volunteering at these events is a great way to give back to the organization that supported your education. You can help with event planning, coordination, or even share your story with others attending the event.
3. Donate to the foundation: Another way to support future scholars is by making donations to the Hagan Scholarship Foundation. The foundation relies on donations from alumni and other supporters to continue providing scholarships for students in need. Every donation counts, no matter how small, and can help change the life of a deserving student.
4. Share your story: Your Hagan Scholarship journey is unique and inspiring. By sharing your story, you can motivate others to apply for the scholarship or support the foundation. You can share your experience on social media, write a blog post, or even speak at events organized by the foundation.
5. Spread awareness about the scholarship: Many students are not aware of the Hagan Scholarship and its benefits. You can help spread awareness about this opportunity by reaching out to high schools in your community and sharing information about the scholarship. You never know, you could be helping someone who may have never considered applying for college due to financial constraints.
6. Stay connected with other scholars: As a former scholar, you are part of a community of individuals who have all benefited from the Hagan Scholarship. Staying connected with other scholars through social media or alumni events can help you build meaningful relationships and expand your network.

By giving back as a former Hagan Scholar, you are not only making a positive impact on others but also honoring the generosity of those who supported you throughout your academic journey. Your contributions, no matter how big or small, can make a difference in someone else’s life and continue the legacy of the Hagan Scholarship Foundation.

Conclusion

The Hagan Scholarship is a prestigious and highly competitive scholarship program that aims to support and encourage academically ambitious and well-rounded students in their pursuit of higher education. Through its comprehensive financial aid package, mentorship opportunities, and career development resources, the Hagan Scholarship truly stands out among other scholarship programs.

One of the greatest benefits of being a Hagan Scholar is the financial assistance provided. The scholarship covers up to $48,000 over four years, which can greatly alleviate the burden of tuition costs for recipients. This allows students to focus on their academics and extracurricular activities without having to worry about financial constraints. Additionally, the scholarship also provides funds for expenses such as books, room and board, transportation, and even study abroad experiences. This extensive coverage makes it easier for scholars to fully immerse themselves in their college experience without worrying about financial limitations.

Moreover, being a part of the Hagan Scholar community also means gaining access to valuable mentorship opportunities. Each scholar is paired with a mentor who serves as a guide throughout their college journey. Mentors are successful professionals from various industries who provide guidance, advice, and networking opportunities for scholars. Having a mentor not only helps students navigate through college but also prepares them for post-graduation life by offering insights into different career paths.

In addition to financial aid and mentorship opportunities, the Hagan Scholarship also offers resources for personal growth and development. Scholars are required to participate in Leadership Conferences where they learn essential skills such as effective communication, time management, and team building. These conferences not only enhance scholars’ personal and professional skills but also allow them to connect with fellow scholars from all over the country.

Furthermore, the Hagan Scholarship also provides career development resources to help scholars prepare for their future careers. This includes resume building workshops, mock interviews, and networking events with potential employers. With these resources, scholars are better equipped to enter the workforce upon graduation.

Overall, the Hagan Scholarship is a unique and comprehensive program that offers not only financial assistance but also valuable mentorship and career development opportunities. It is a highly prestigious scholarship that seeks to support driven and well-rounded students in their pursuit of higher education. As such, being awarded the Hagan Scholarship is not just about receiving financial aid but also becoming part of a community that fosters personal growth and development.