Bank Independent Scholarships Honor Athens State Recipients

by Staff
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ATHENS – Two Athens State University students were recognized on Monday as the first recipients of the Bank Independent Scholarship.  Alicia Baugh, a senior from Florence, and Jacob Ricketts, a junior from Athens, attended a luncheon in their honor with Athens State officials and Bank Independent representatives.

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Bank Independent President Macke Mauldin, who currently serves Athens State University as Chairman Pro Tempore of the Board of Trustees, congratulated these students on their achievements. “We’re awfully proud of you,” said Mauldin.  “This scholarship is a continuation of my dad’s legacy, and it comes with the obligation to pay it forward.”

Mauldin explained that his father, the late Edward F. Mauldin, never graduated from college, but believed that everyone should be provided the opportunity to attend.  He added that Athens State University is uniquely positioned to make a college education available to those who might not otherwise have the time or resources to attend a traditional course of study.

“Athens State and its programs are agile, nimble and progressive,” said Mauldin.  “The world is changing so rapidly, and, like in the banking industry, colleges must meet students where they are.”

Dr. Bob Glenn, President of Athens State University, described the school as “a working person’s university.”  He added that the average Athens State student is 32 years old and works full-time while supporting a family.  “We are the lowest tuition institution in the state, but college still costs a lot. That’s why scholarships like this are so important.”

Baugh, who will graduate in May 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in Management and a minor in Human Resources, holds a full-time position in Florence and has four children aged two to twelve.  Ricketts is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and Secondary Education while also working full-time.  After graduation he plans to return to Athens State to pursue a Master’s degree.

“I really appreciate this scholarship,” said Ricketts.  “It is a huge help.  Working full-time and attending college is quite the task.”

Mauldin presented Baugh and Ricketts with a special gift from Bank Independent and congratulated them again on their accomplishments. He also commended the Athens State leadership on the progress the college has made in the past five years.

“Good things are happening because of Athens State,” Mauldin said.

MEDIA RELEASE/ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY/GUY MCCLURE, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

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