The names of more than 1,600 Black American high school seniors who have been designated semifinalists in the 45th annual Achievement Scholarship® competition were announced recently by the National Achievement Scholarship Program. These scholastically talented students now have an opportunity to continue in the competition for approximately 800 scholarships worth over $2.6 million to be awarded next spring.

Approximately 1,300 semifinalists are expected to fulfill additional requirements and advance to the finalist level in the 2009 program. All Achievement Scholar® awardees will be selected from the finalist group on the basis of their abilities, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

Students from the local area include: Dreher H.S. Alexandria N. Griddine, Leandra M. Lacy A.C. Flora H.S. Jasmine D. Ayers Heathwood Hall Episco pal School Travis G. Stewart Ben Lippen School Charles E. Sims Richland Northeast H.S. Nicholas A. Givens, LaDeidre A. Harmon, Jasmine M. James, Crystal M. Stewart Ridgeview H.S. Sheneka S.White Spring Valley H.S. Gordon M. Alexander, Dominique C. Johnson, Terrica Payton, Danielle D. Wilson Lower Richland H.S. Raven N. Stevenson Airport H.S. Mikelle D. Street