Pictured are Roddey E. Gettys III, Erin Reid, Shiela Miller, Amy Phillips and Tom O’Hanlan.

EASLEY — Three recipients were recently awarded the first annual Roddey E. Gettys III Clinical Scholarships for the 2014-2015 academic year.

This year’s winners were Shiela Miller, Erin Reid and Amy Phillips.

The applicants were evaluated on their applications, essays, letters of recommendations, and transcripts. Eligible applicants had to fulfill five requirements:

1. Demonstrate a commitment to pursue a career in healthcare by completing at least one full academic year (30 semester credits) in a healthcare-related discipline.

2. Be in good academic standing at the time of application and on track to graduate in a healthcare related discipline.

3. Be enrolled in an accredited associate degree program, four-year degree program or a postgraduate program in a healthcare-related discipline.

4. Demonstrate a commitment to community service.

5. Be a full-time permanent resident of Pickens, Anderson, Greenville, or Oconee Counties in South Carolina.

Miller is a student in the physical therapy assistant program at Greenville Tech. Last year, she self-published a book, “Memoirs of a Miracle Baby: A Testimony of God’s Love.”

“Over the course of my life, I’ve come to realize that I survived for a reason and I have a purpose on this earth,” Miller said. “My purpose is to bless others with my own God-given talents and abilities.”

Reid is a student in the nursing program at Anderson University.

“As a nurse, I will be able to meet the physical needs of patients as well as assist them on a more intimate level,” she said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to pursue a career seemingly tailored for my strengths as an individual.”

Phillips is a medical student at USC School of Medicine-Greenville. She has volunteered more than 150 hours for Access Health, a nonprofit organization focused on providing healthcare for low-income, uninsured patients. She received a 4.0 in her first year of medical school.

“I am becoming a doctor because I want to provide exceptional care to my patients,” Phillips said. “My desire to help others motivates me to take the time needed to develop relationships that enable me to understand each patient’s individual needs.”

The Roddey E. Gettys III Clinical Scholarship Endowment Fund offers those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare the opportunity to perpetuate Gettys’ legacy of clinical excellence and patient-focused service. It is administered through the Baptist Easley Hospital Foundation. Interested students are welcome to apply for next year’s awards. Call the Foundation office at (864) 442-7617 for more information.