A Lawrence native and University of Pittsburgh student is a recipient of one of the prestigious Harry S. Truman Scholarships.

Eleanor Ott, a 2004 graduate of Free State High School, received the award after an intense competition that narrowed thousands of applicants to 65 winners. At least one winner is selected from each state for the awards that are given to college juniors who are dedicated to careers in government, the nonprofit sector or elsewhere in public service.

“It’s a very intensive process because each university can only nominate four students,” Ott said. “I’m really dedicated to a career in public service. This really opens a lot of doors to my future.”

The awards help fund graduate school for each of the students selected. The scholarships pay out up to $30,000.

“The University of Pittsburgh is one of this country’s most consistent producers of high-achieving students,” Pittsburgh Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg said. “Ellie Ott’s selection as a Truman scholar extends that enviable record. She is a very worthy recipient of this high national honor, given her exemplary record as an outstanding student, a committed contributor to the broader community and a highly effective leader.”

Ott, who says she’s normally very averse to publicity, said she’s looking forward to the intangibles that come with being a Truman scholar. There’s a weeklong seminar with other Truman scholars this summer, and then the organization will help Ott find an internship in summer 2009, once she graduates.

Ott, who is the daughter of Genna and Greg Hurd and the late Michael Ott, is a triple major in chemistry, history and French.

“I’ve heard from past Truman scholars that the seminar is one of the best times of your life,” Ott said. “You meet a lot of other students who are doing incredible things with their lives.”

The seminar is held in relatively nearby Liberty, Mo., at William Jewell College.

“I really liked all the people at the interviews,” Ott said. “Every step along the way I’ve met a lot of candidates doing great things, people who are really improving the world.”