ANDERSON, S.C. -- Two AU students, Victoria Herold and volleyball outside hitter Jamie Leigh Lancaster, were named the top two college students in the state among 21 independent colleges and universities by the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU). Victoria Herald was chosen as the top Independent College Student of the Year and was awarded a $2,000 academic scholarship. Jamie Leigh Lancaster was recognized with a $1,000 academic scholarship. The J. Lacy McLean Scholarship, awarded to Herold, and the Sterling L. Smith Scholarship, awarded to Lancaster, are presented annually to students who have not only performed well academically, but have also demonstrated a commitment to public affairs, community service and leadership. Each of the state's 21 independent colleges or universities submits one nominee per award, totaling 42 candidates. From those submitted, a scholarship selection committee honors two students with the top SCICU awards. For the 2009-2010 academic year, both awards were presented to Anderson University students. "We are extremely proud of both of these students who exemplify the best of what we strive for at Anderson University," said Anderson University President, Evans P. Whitaker. "We are also grateful that the SCICU has taken notice of their accomplishments. Not only are Victoria and Jamie model students, but they are fine citizens who serve in a variety of ways on and off campus - something we emphasize to our entire student body."