SOUTH PORTLAND — Southern Maine Community College has received a $25,000 gift from Lafayette Hotels/Holiday Inn by the Bay, college officials announced Wednesday.

The money will be used to provide scholarships to students in the lodging and restaurant management and culinary arts programs.

The college operates the McKernan Hospitality Center on its waterfront campus. The inn and conference center gives students hands-on experience, with a full-service front desk, 22 guest rooms and a 100-seat restaurant.