By CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT / Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA – Six Shelby County residents were awarded scholarships at the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce luncheon April 7.

Columbiana Mayor Allan Lowe presented the 2012 Johnny Lowe Academic Scholarships to recent high school graduates.

“Johnny Lowe was my father, and yesterday was 10 years since he passed,” Lowe said. “Dad always liked taking care of folks and giving opportunities they wouldn’t have otherwise.

The scholarships were given to the following graduates:

Dana Latrice Lee is the daughter of Sharon Denise Burns and is a graduate of the School of Technology. She plans to attend Central Alabama Community College to study nursing.

Bria Nicole Burns is the daughter of Bridgette Smith and is a graduate of Vincent High School. She plans on attending Jefferson State Community College, where she has also received a two-year presidential scholarship, to study criminal justice and forensic science with a minor in business.

Jana Kelbie Gabrielle Armstrong is the daughter of Mark and Kelly Armstrong and is a graduate of Cornerstone Christian School. She plans to attend the University of Montevallo to study elementary education.

Lauren Ashley Archer is the daughter of Jeremy and Amy Archer and is a graduate of Coosa Valley Academy. She plans to attend Central Alabama Community College to study nursing.

Robin Leeann King is the daughter of Rebecca and Richard King and is a graduate of Chelsea High School. She plans to attend Judson College to study business administration.

Kelsie Nicole Knight is the daughter of Autumn and Wesley Knight and is a graduate of Shelby County High School. She plans to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to become a physicians assistant.

John Browning of Cahaba Valley Computer Services, LLC was the luncheon’s main speaker. Bolton Funeral Home sponsored the luncheon with food provided by Bernie’s on Main.