LEWISTON — Joshua Ferguson, a graduate student at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College, has been awarded a C. Donald Sweeney Veterans Scholarships from the National Association of State Approving Agencies, in the amount of $1,000 for the fall semester.

Ferguson is enrolled in the occupational therapy program at USM LAC and previously served in the United States Army as a combat medic. The purpose of the scholarship is to honor the service of soldiers and veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

To be eligible, a currently registered University of Southern Maine undergraduate or graduate student must be a soldier or veteran receiving VA educational benefits, and have a proven record of excellence in leadership, scholarship and service.

The intent of the scholarship is to provide financial assistance to a veteran who is pursuing a post-secondary education. Ferguson’s award was one of two scholarships given to a USM student.