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The 2011 CHET Dream Big! Competition, sponsored by the State of Connecticut Treasurer’s Office, TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing Inc. and CHET, was a drawing and essay contest for Connecticut students in grades Kindergarten (K) through
five (5). The competition ran from February 7 through April 4, 2011.

The CHET Dream Big! Competition was designed to encourage families to start thinking about how higher education may help their children realize their dreams and make a difference in the world, and to promote the importance of saving for college early through a CHET account.

Children in grades K through 1 and grades 2 through 3 were asked to draw a picture that portrays the answer to the question, “What do I want to do after I go to college?” The 4th- and 5th-grade students were asked to write an essay explaining, “How will I change the world after I go to college?”

More than 2,100 entries were received from across the state. A panel of judges selected the competition winners. Ninety-six (96) County winners—four winners (two girls and two boys) from each of Connecticut’s eight counties in each of the three entry categories—were possible (unless entries were not received from each county or in each category). The winning essay (grades 4-5) and drawings (grades K-1 and grades 2-3) were selected from each county.

Forty-eight (48) Merit winners—two winners (one girl and one boy) from each of Connecticut's eight counties in each of the three categories—were possible (unless entries were not received from each county or in each category).

All prizes were awarded during an official awards ceremony on May 18, 2011, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT. The parents or legal guardians of the 86 County winners were each awarded a $250 contribution to a CHET direct-sold account. The parents or legal guardians of the 43 Merit winners were each awarded a $50 contribution to a CHET direct-sold account. Additionally, $50 prize checks were awarded to the top ten teachers whose students submitted the most entries.

Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing in the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET). Please visit www.aboutchet.com for a Disclosure Booklet containing this information and other information. Read it carefully.

Before investing in a CHET direct-sold 529 college savings plan, you should consider whether the state you or your designated beneficiary reside in or have taxable income in has a 529 plan that offers favorable state income tax or other benefits that are only available if you invest in the state's 529 plan.

Account value in the Investment Options is not guaranteed and will fluctuate based upon a number of factors, including general market conditions..

The CHET direct-sold plan is managed by TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. CHET is administered by the Connecticut State Treasurer's Office.

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