By Staci Jones | The Selma Times-Journal

Selma native Ariana Bentley has been recognized for her academic achievement by receiving a scholarship from Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Foundation.

“We believe hard work and dedication should be rewarded, and this is one way we’re committed to doing so,” said Penny Carroll, director of the Cracker Barrel Foundation in a recent press release.

The $1,500 scholarship is given to only 55 students from around the country, once a year.

Bentley, who is a rising senior at the University of West Alabama, said that it was an honor to receive the award.

“I screamed when I found out. My mom was in the shower and thought something was wrong. I told her what I had in the mail. She was excited too,” Bentley said.

At UWA, Bentley is an active student in several organizations on campus. She is on the President’s List and has a cumulative 3.7 GPA.

Bentley believes that her grades are not all that lead her to receiving the scholarship.

“They saw how hard I work. I’ve been at Cracker Barrel for three years. My work ethic is what caught their attention and made me stand out,” Bentley said.

Bentley says that the award came at the perfect time and will aid in her paying for her education.

“I was praying for it. It really helps out,” said Bentley about the scholarship.

She will receive a bachelor’s degree in accounting in December 2016.