Three Chilton County residents were among 50 recipients of the 2014 Alfa Foundation scholarship.

Each recipient received $1,000 in the pro-gram’s inaugural year.

The scholarship recipients included:

•Haley Barnett of Thorsby, a graduate of Thorsby High School and sophomore at the University of Montevallo studying pre-physical therapy.

•Lakeyn Edwards of Clanton, a graduate of Verbena High School and sophomore at the University of Montevallo studying kinesiology.

•John Gasson of Clanton, a graduate of Thorsby High School and senior at the University of Montevallo studying accounting.

Selection for the competitive scholarship program was based on academic record, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals.

“As a father of a college senior, I understand the impact of rising tuition costs on families and students,”said Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell. “We hope our gift will ease some of that burden and allow the recipients to focus more on studies and gaining valuable professional experience.”

Almost 800 applications were received for the scholarship program from high school seniors and post-secondary undergraduates enrolled or planning to enroll in an Alabama two- or four-year college, university or technical school.

The scholarship may be used for tuition, fees, books and supplies required for coursework.