Members of the new Swain Scholars class are Iesha Wade, an exercise and sport science major from York; Christine Po, a health promotion major from Loris; Katie Roach, a health promotion major from Milford, Conn.; and Janel Reeves, an exercise and sport science major from Rustburg, Va.

A two-year scholarship program for Coastal Carolina University juniors and seniors, the Swain Scholars program was created through a major gift to the University by retired Myrtle Beach pharmacist Kenneth E. Swain. Swain’s gift, one of the largest in CCU history, is designated largely for science scholarships, with a particular emphasis on health science programs.

Each Swain Scholar receives a $5,000 scholarship annually. To be eligible, students must have a 3.5 grade point average. Swain Scholars also work with community agencies to research health-related issues and implement community health programs.

The new class of Swain Scholars joins those chosen last year: Miguel Mendoza, a biology major from Longs; Alex Ham, a health promotion major from Murrells Inlet, S.C.; Allyson League, an exercise and sport science major from White Hall, Md.; and Tom Niemela, an exercise and sport science major from Richmond, Va.

In addition to scholarships, the Swain gift supports expanded laboratories and new equipment for teaching and research. The University’s new science building, currently under construction, will be called Kenneth E. Swain Hall.