SANFORD - Lee Early College senior Hannah Cowfer has been honored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars for her winning essay in the organization's Voice of Democracy essay competition. The topic was, "Is there pride in serving in our military?"

Cowfer won at both the local and district levels and was runner-up at the state level.

Commander Anthony Hall of VFW District 9 and Quartermaster Otis Weaver of VFW Post 5631, in Sanford, visited Lee Early College on March 30 to present the award certificate to Cowfer on behalf of State Commander Jason Schoolcraft. Commander Hall noted how proud the VFW is of her. He also stressed the importance of more local high school students participating in the contest.

At the award presentation, Cowfer read her winning essay to her classmates and teachers as well as administrators from LEC and Central Carolina Community College. LEC is located on the college's Lee County Campus.

LEC Principal Robert Biehl described Cowfer as a "highly dedicated, extremely motivated student."

Cowfer graduates in May with both her high school diploma and an associate of arts degree from CCCC. She plans to attend Campbell University in the fall to study birth-kindergarten education.

Lee Early College is a collaboration of Lee County Schools and Central Carolina Community College. Students enter as ninth graders and, within five years, can earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree. There is no cost to the students or families. For more information about Lee Early College, visit its Web site, www.leeearlycollege.com.