West Carolina, FRS Awards $13,000 in Scholarships to Local Students

Abbeville, S.C. – West Carolina recently celebrated the achievements of local students at their annual Scholarship Reception, awarding a combined $13,000 in scholarships to local students as they continue their education.   

This year’s recipient of West Carolina’s signature $8,000 scholarship, issued over four years at $2,000, was Daniel “Miller” Crawford of Dixie High School. He also received the $1,000 Roger Cox Scholarship through the Foundation of Rural Service (FRS). The Roger Cox scholarship is a national award presented through the FRS to support students from rural communities as they pursue higher education opportunities.  

Ella Atkins of Abbeville High School received the $1,000 West Carolina Scholarship Honors Award in recognition of her academic achievement and commitment to excellence. 

These scholarship applications were independently judged by a panel selected by FRS in Washington, D.C., helping ensure a fair and impartial selection process. 

Additionally, the cooperative presented the $1,000 Walt Thomas Memorial Scholarship to Turner Mapp of Crescent High School. Named in honor of longtime community leader Walt Thomas, the scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate strong character, leadership, and service to their communities. 

West Carolina also awarded $1,000 scholarships to the children of West Carolina employees. This year’s recipients were Lane Dominick of Ninety Six High School, son of Business Solutions Representative Courtney Dominick, and Kate Taylor of Greenwood Christian School, daughter of VP of Government & Community Affairs Stephen Taylor.  

Chris Townson, CEO of West Carolina, congratulated the recipients and emphasized the cooperative’s commitment to investing in the future of rural communities.  

“Each of these students has demonstrated hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence,” Townson said. “We are proud to support their educational journeys and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in their communities and beyond.”  

Wes McAllister, president of the West Carolina Board of Directors, said the scholarship program reflects the cooperative’s dedication to supporting local students and families.  

“These scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They represent an investment in the next generation of leaders,” McAllister said. “We are honored to recognize these outstanding students and celebrate their achievements.”  

For more information about West Carolina’s scholarship programs and community initiatives, visit westcarolina.com/community.