FINLEY -- Randy Fishman was thrilled to learn he earned the $32,000 Washington State Scholar award.

Then the valedictorian at Finley's River View High School got a letter from the Higher Education Coordinating Board for Washington State telling him it was unable to cough up the money because of budget constraints.

The award is given each year to recognize graduating seniors for their academic excellence, leadership and community service. The program recognizes the accomplishments of three high school seniors from each of the state's 49 legislative districts.

The letter from the higher education board stated that the monetary part of the award could not be honored and all he would receive is acknowledgment at his commencement ceremony, which was Friday night in Finley.

"Due to the severe economic conditions affecting all state expenditures, there is a strong probability that scholarships will not be funded in the 2011-13 state budget for Washington scholars named from the graduating class of 2011," the letter stated. "For this reason, we recommend that you pursue your educational plans without consideration of a monetary benefit through this award."

The letter also implied that the board would let Fishman know in writing if circumstances changed.

"It was pretty disappointing, as it would have definitely helped my parents and I financially for college," he said.

Fishman received more than $30,000 in other scholarships from nine groups, including a $16,000 Washington State University Regents Scholar Award.

Fishman, however, wasn't about to let the disappointment deter him from pursuing his college education.

"I would have attended Washington State University either way," he said.

He plans to study pre-medicine, said his school counselor.