KANNAPOLIS — Two Rowan-Cabarrus Community College students have been honored with the State Employees’ Credit Union “People Helping People” scholarship.

The State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation provides two $5,000 scholarships annually to each of the 58 North Carolina community colleges.

Recipients for both scholarships are selected by the individual college’s scholarship committees. Selections are based on a student’s embodiment of the credit union’s “People Helping People” philosophy demonstrated through leadership, excellence of character, integrity and community involvement, along with an overall grade point average of 2.5 or higher.

“Congratulations to both Austin Lilly and Adam Allman! We are confident that this scholarship will help them continue to achieve and demonstrate the remarkable qualities that earned them this award,” said Natasha Lipscomb, director of student life and leadership development for the college.

Austin Lilly of Rowan County is pursuing an associate degree, with plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine. He is dedicated to helping others through his mission work in the local community and abroad.

“My family has taught me the value of hard work and honesty, through my mission work I have learned that even the smallest gestures of kindness matter to people,” said Lilly. “The State Employees’ Credit Union scholarship provides financial freedom, which allows me the ability go to school and continue to give back to others.”

Adam Allman of Cabarrus County is currently pursuing an associate in applied science degree in accounting. He works with Mount Pleasant High School’s young student-athletes and he has a strong work ethic, defeating any challenge that he encounters.

“This scholarship has allowed me to continue my education while being able to continue my volunteer work,” said Allman.

Recipients can use the scholarship funds for tuition, books, fees, course supplies and transportation.

“Thank you to the State Employees’ Credit Union for their commitment to Rowan-Cabarrus and our students,” said Carl M. Short, chair of the Rowan-Cabarrus Board of Trustees. “The price of education continues to climb across the country and I am pleased that the State Employees’ Credit Union is committed to helping students achieve their goals.”