Two students from Fayette County have been awarded the National Merit $2,000 scholarships.

Timothy Z. Brock of Fayette County High School and John B. Martino of Sandy Creek High are among 2,400 high school seniors in the nation receiving the prestigious scholarships.

Brock is planning to pursue a career in medicine. He is a STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) student, a two-year member of the National Honor Society and a three-year member of the Beta Club. He has been on the Spanish National Honor Society for three years, co-captain of the varsity math team, a member of the varsity academic team for three years and advanced placement U.S. history "student of the year," as well as the advanced placement chemistry "student of the year."

He was a nominee for the governor's scholarship, and ran varsity track for two years, varsity cross-country for four years, and placed first in the Gordon College Bowl.

Martino has distinguished himself by scoring a perfect 1,600 on Scholastic Achievement Test and is a STAR student. He is seeking a career in non-profit organization management. He has been a member of the math team for four years, serving as both captain and treasurer, an academic bowl captain, AAA all-state team, a member of the National Honor Society for two years, and a member of the Science Olympiad for three years, receiving four state medals.

Martino has contributed to the literary magazine for fours years, serving as co-editor, and participated in the Governor's Honor Program in math. He is a three-year Beta Club member.

Students were selected for the scholarship based on their academic record, scores from two tests, their demonstrated leadership, contributions to school and community activities, a written essay about goals and a recommendation by their high schools.

Announcement of the winners was made by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Established in 1955 to conduct the National Merit Program, the NSMC is a not-for-profit corporation that operates without government assistance.