CARY - Local high school graduates Thomas Barnett and Kishore Kalagnanam earned Progress Energy Merit Award Scholarships. Progress awards the scholarships to qualifying college-bound children of company employees.

Recipients are judged on academics, leadership, potential to succeed, work experience and participation in school and community activities.

The awards are worth $1,500 per year and are renewable annually, up to four years.

Barnett is a recent graduate of Athens Drive High School and the son of Tom and Robin Barnett. Thomas plans to attend UNC- Chapel Hill.

Kalagnanam is a recent graduate of Cary High School and the son of Ramesh and Uma Kalagnanam. Kishore also plans to attend UNC- Chapel Hill.