MARS — The Cranberry Township Chamber of Commerce demonstrated its dedication to education Tuesday afternoon at an annual luncheon at the Twelve Oaks Mansion.

The chamber awarded six recipients a $1,000 scholarship each for higher education. The scope of the chamber's scholarship program changed drastically this year, however, as it doubled the amount of recipients and money donated from $3,000 to $6,000.

The scholarships were awarded to Mars High School seniors Lisa Moser, Molly Stenner, Angela Vranich and Sean Matthews. Seneca Valley senior Melanie Hanas and non-traditional student Valerie Damiani also received scholarships.

The chamber began offering a $100 scholarship in 1991. It boosted the program this year to include two vocational students and a non-traditional student.

"This award isn't only for traditional students anymore," said Susan Balla, chairwoman of the chamber board. "We decided to extend the funds to meet the needs of all people who want to pursue higher education. The next step is to keep growing, which the chamber is by leaps and bounds."

More than 50 students applied for the scholarships, which are funded by the chamber's annual Thorn Hill 5k race.

Mike Langley, the chief executive officer of the Allegheny Conference, was the keynote speaker. He is in charge of the yearlong Pittsburgh 250 celebration, marking the 250th anniversary of the start of the city.

Applicants had to live in the Mars or Seneca Valley school districts, be a member of the chamber or have a family member in the chamber.