- Associated Press - Friday, June 10, 2011

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Two Philadelphia high school seniors are each receiving $5,000 college scholarships from Eagles quarterback Michael Vick.

The NFL star made the announcement Friday during a commencement speech to 450 graduates of the Camelot schools for at-risk youth.

The scholarship winners were chosen based on their academic record, attendance and student government participation.

The former Atlanta Falcon rebuilt his career with the Eagles after serving 18 months in prison for his role in a dogfighting ring. Vick, a Virginia native, now regularly speaks against dogfighting to schools and community groups.

Camelot officials say Vick’s life story and determination to succeed will resonate with students, who persevered through disciplinary and academic problems to receive diplomas.

Camelot students have also been protesting planned education cuts that jeopardize funding for their program.

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