The Bladen-Columbus Chapter of the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Alumni has awarded five scholarships to deserving students within our region. Each scholarship is worth $500.

Cheryl McLean, a rising sophomore at A&T, was a graduate of Whiteville High School. She is the daughter of Sherlynn and William McLean. Cheryl is a child development major.

Marvin Edge Jr. is a graduate of West Columbus High School where he served as a marshal. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Edge Sr. of Cerro Gordo. Marvin played both varsity baseball and varsity football, and excelled in band.

Another Whiteville High School graduate attending A&T State University is Cynquasha Best. The daughter of Cynthia Daly and Lester Best, Cynquasha has excelled in track and field, as well as academics.

D’Aveon Latreyl McCollum is the son of Tamara and Eric McCollum. He graduated from West Columbus High School where he was a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball.

As a student at West Columbus, Zhanaysha Dawson has proven herself proficient in both academics and sports. She participated in basketball, cheerleading, volleyball, softball, track, as well as the Beta Club. Her parents are Latisha Hollingsworth and Scott Dawson.

Two of the students are receiving the Johnie Peterkin Scholarship — Cheryl McLean, and Marvin Edge Jr. This scholarship is in memory of Johnie Peterkin, a warrior for the students attending the university. Mr. Peterkin worked tirelessly in promoting education and the aggie family. His wife, Tillie Peterkin, and a daughter reside in Columbus County.

For information about the association, send inquiries to: P.O. Box 252, Whiteville, N.C. 28472.