SOLDOTNA, AK (October 24, 2011) – Keys to the van that Alaska Christian College won in a contest – thanks to Covenanters around the country who voted online – were handed to the school’s president, Keith Hamilton, during a recent special ceremony in Anchorage.

The school competed against four other nonprofits as part of Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program, easily winning not only the van, but $1,000 as well. The general public cast their votes online in May.

Mike Morris, general manager of Kendall Toyota, presented Hamilton with the keys to the Sienna Mobility Van at the dealership. The new van replaces one of the school’s 15-passenger vans, which had been worn out through heavy usage.

Hamilton said the van will greatly extend the reach of the college’s community programs and provide much-needed transportation for everything from medical appointments to sports gatherings in Alaska.

Hamilton expressed his gratitude to Covenanters and other supporters who voted. “Their enthusiasm for the school and what we are accomplishing made this possible,” he said.

A representative for Toyota noted the school’s contributions. “Our nationwide 100 Cars for Good campaign has provided a big boost to many nonprofits, and we’re delighted to recognize Alaskan Christian College for the life-changing opportunities the school is providing for native Alaskan students,” said Mark Angelacos, regional general manager.

In addition to Hamilton, several members of the Board of Trustees also attended: Shawn Aspelund, Bruce Kovarik, Laura Eben, and Stephanie Eklund. Student representatives were Max Francher, student body president, Melanie Shavings and Vince Schaeffer.

The presentation took place October 13.