Debbie Vu, a student at Pinecrest High School in Southern Pines, is among 20 area high school seniors who have been awarded a $1,000 Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) scholarship for outstanding academic and community achievement.

The local scholars join 60 other students from across the Carolinas who also received RMHC scholarships.

"It's such an honor for us as business owners to be a part of helping to send some of our local students to college," said McDonald's owner/operator Carol Martin. "These scholars are really superstars in our eyes. It's amazing how much they've accomplished already in their young lives, and we're honored to be helping them on their road to even greater success."

McDonald's RMHC scholarship recipients were chosen based on their leadership skills, academic success, community involvement, financial need and a personal essay describing how they intend to make a difference in society.

These scholars were honored at an awards luncheon May 8 at Marriott Crabtree Valley Hotel in Raleigh.

Vu, who has a 4.7 grade-point average, is considering majoring in journalism and drama. She wants to be a news anchor. She is fluent in English, Chinese and Spanish. She is active in her church and served in leadership roles in several clubs.

Ronald McDonald House Charities, is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization that creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well being of children.