Fantasia Barrino Helps Reward Students for Their Dedication to Literacy and Education

GREENWICH, Conn., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The increasingly competitive job market in the United States has made education and literacy more important than ever. That is why beauty brand Suave(R) and Dollar General(R) stores teamed up with American Idol winner, recording artist and Broadway star Fantasia Barrino for the Fourth Annual "Suave Essay Contest" to recognize students who are committed to education. Four students stood out among thousands of entrants who submitted essays describing their devotion to education and how their invaluable mentors have helped them achieve success. The winners are Amanda Codd, Towson, Md.; Nayala Smith, New York, N.Y.; Katelyn Baroody, Bath, N.Y. and Jeremy Barrera-Gonzalez, Raymondville, Texas. The four contest winners each receive scholarship money and a once-in-a- lifetime trip to New York to meet Fantasia and see her perform in the musical "The Color Purple."

Having overcome her own challenges with literacy, Fantasia Barrino is a true idol to both children and adults. She has served as an inspiration to millions who admire her courage. As an integral part of the "Suave Essay Contest," Fantasia continues to help raise awareness of an important, sometimes overlooked issue as well as build excitement in students for learning and education.

"I am so excited to be a part of the Suave and Dollar General program and am thrilled that so many students entered the contest," said Fantasia. "I hope that more and more students realize the importance of bettering their literacy skills in order to realize their dreams."

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