SPECIAL TO THE REPORTER

Several area residents have received competitive scholarships to Samford University.

Sarah Elise Clark of Calera and Amanda Marie Tapley of north Shelby county both received competitive Beeson Exceptional Scholarships to Samford University. Clark and Tapley are among 10 recipients of a Dwight Moody and Lucille Stewart Beeson Scholarship, which is renewable for four years of study and covers tuition, fees, room, board and books. Recipients have demonstrated superior scholastic ability, leadership, energy and self-reliance in extracurricular activities, and church and community affairs.

The Beeson Exceptional Scholars Program is designed to help meritorious Alabama residents pursue studies at Samford and to encourage the state&8217;s brightest and best students to obtain their university experience in Alabama.

Matthew Scott Robertson of northern Shelby received a Presidential Scholarship, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, college entrance scores, demonstrated leadership ability and a personal interview.

The scholarship is renewable for four years. Clark, a graduate of Hope Christian School, is the daughter of Bettie and Thomas Clark, Tapley, a graduate of Briarwood Christian High School, is the daughter of Patricia and Jeff Tapley. Robertson is a graduate of Briarwood Christian School, and the son of Jennifer and Greg Robertson.

These freshmen students will arrive at Samford on Aug. 24 for several days of final orientation activity. Fall semester classes begin Aug. 28