Alexandria N. Griddine Three Richland One high school seniors have been named winners in the 45th annual National Achievement Scholarship competition putting them in an elite group. They are among the 22 South Carolina students and 800 nationwide to achieve this prestigious honor.

Richland One's 2009 National Achievement Program winners are Alexandria N. Griddine, Dreher High School; Leandra M. Lacy, Dreher High School; Raven N. Stevenson, Lower Richland High School.

The National Achievement Program recognizes outstanding African- American students who have a record of high academic performance in high school including top scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and the SAT. More than 1,600 students across the nation competed for the awards as semifinalists.

Winners may receive a $2,500 single- payment scholarship or renewable awards ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. The scholarships are funded by corporations, professional organizations, foundations, and the National Merit program.

Leandra M. Lacy For more information please contact the Richland One Office of Communications at 231-7504 or 231- 7510.

Raven N. Stevenson