FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Tuesday, May 26th 2026

Ashley Waller    843-369-8105          ashley.waller@htcinc.net

Amanda Marker 843-443-8533          AMarker@carolinatrust.org

Two Area Students Receive Key Scholarship Award

For the twentieth year, Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union and HTC chose two graduating high school seniors to win their annual Key Scholarship.  High school seniors from Horry, Georgetown, Marion, Williamsburg, and the southern part of Florence County planning to attend either Coastal Carolina University or Francis Marion University were encouraged to apply.

The 2026 Key Scholarship award winners are: Socastee High School graduate, Brittney Ackerman and St. James High School graduate, Isabella McBride.  This fall, both Ackerman and McBride plan to attend Coastal Carolina University (CCU).

“HTC and Carolina Trust believe in supporting students and encouraging educational growth within the communities we serve,” said Carlton Lewis, HTC Chief Executive Officer and Carolina Trust Board of Directors Member. “Programs like this scholarship reflect our ongoing dedication and commitment to helping local students succeed.”

Due to the commitment of both organizations to supporting our local communities and local universities, the amount of the scholarship is $5,000.

“We are honored to recognize these talented students. Their academic achievements in the classroom, extra curricular activities, and dedication to community service are truly impressive. We are proud of all the applicants who are planning to continue their education in an effort to achieve personal and professional goals,” said Tim Carlisle, Carolina Trust President/CEO.

Application packets were distributed to high school guidance counselors and the scholarship opportunities were advertised on the Carolina Trust and HTC websites. The 2026 award recipients were scored as most qualified for the Key Scholarship based on completed application, academics, school and/or community involvement, and school choice.

For more information, please contact Ashley Waller at 843-369-8105 or Amanda Marker at 843-443-8533.