MT. VERNON — Peoples National Bank will once again be giving $500 scholarships to high school seniors to help them in their journey to pursue a higher education. Scholarships are awarded to students that show positive leadership and character in academic, community, and extra-curricular activites.

Chris Bernard is the Marketing Coordinator at Peoples National Bank. He says these scholars are the future of Southern Illinois.

To pick up an application, students should contact their high school guidance counselor or stop by their local Peoples National Bank or download an application at the bank’s website. The application deadline is March 2.