Transylvania University has won the 2009 AIKCU “Battle of the Bumpers,” the friendly contest between AIKCU’s 20 members to see which institution’s supporters can put the most college-branded license plates on Kentucky highways in a calendar year.

Transylvania supporters purchased 735 plates in 2009 to help Transy repeat as “Battle of the Bumpers” champions. In 2008 Transylvania ended Centre College’s five year reign in the competition.

“I am impressed with the number of alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff, and friends who choose to show their Transylvania pride on their license plates,” said Transylvania President Charles L. Shearer. “In particular, the support of our loyal alumni has been remarkable.”

Kentucky Independent Higher Education plates advertise allegiance to the featured campus while supporting current students. Ten dollars from the sale of each plate is returned directly to the school’s general scholarship fund. Overall, sales of Kentucky Independent Higher Education plates raised more than $39,000 for student scholarships in 2009.

“I love to see our members’ plates when I’m out on the road,” said Gary S. Cox, AIKCU president. “Because I know that every one of those drivers is a proud supporter of independent colleges and the difference that an independent education makes in students’ lives.”

Centre placed second and Georgetown College placed third in the 2009 sales competition. Overall sales for the 20 participating colleges and universities were up five percent in 2009.

Kentucky Independent Higher Education plates cost $44 upon initial issue and $31 at renewal, including the $10 for student scholarships. For more information, including contact information for your county clerk, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing at http://mvl.ky.gov/MVLWeb/.