Coastal Carolina University will offer two new scholarships beginning in the Fall 2015 semester that honor the memory of S.C. Sen. Clementa Pinckney, according to an announcement today by CCU President David A. DeCenzo. Pinckney was slain in the June 17 mass shooting in Charleston's Emanuel AME Church.

The $2,500 scholarship will be awarded annually to one male and one female from South Carolina's District 45, which Pinckney represented in the state senate. The district includes parts of Allendale, Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties. Approximately 340 current CCU students are from the district.

"Senator Pinckney worked hard to advance educational opportunities in his district and throughout the state," said DeCenzo. "He understood that education was the means to a better future for all South Carolinians, and he was dedicated to helping people achieve their dreams through knowledge."

Eligibility for the Senator Clementa C. Pinckney Memorial Scholarship will be determined by specific criteria including demonstrated financial need and the maintenance of at least a 3.0 grade point average. The award can be renewed for up to four years.

"In the midst of this tragedy, the University recognizes the work of Senator Pinckney as an activist for justice and individual rights," said Travis Overton, CCU's vice president of student rights & responsibilities/dean of students. "In honor of his service, this scholarship will assist students from District 45 to pursue higher education. The tragedy has affected several students in our community, and the establishment of this scholarship focuses on the true meaning of Senator Pinckney's work."

For more information about the scholarship, contact CCU's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at 843-349-2313 or email finaid@coastal.edu.