Appalachian Connection is pleased to announce the recipient of its inaugural scholarship. Ms. Lauren Little, a recent graduate of Hazard High School was awarded the scholarship on April 22, 2016 at a ceremony at her school. Ms. Little will receive a grant in the amount of $10,000 to be used towards her higher education. She plans to continue her studies at Alice Lloyd College in the Fall.

“With so many impressive applicants, it was an incredibly difficult decision,” said John Cornett, President of Appalachian Connection.”We felt Lauren fit our mission of finding young people who will work hard throughout their lives to be a positive force in the Appalachian region.”

Besides an impressive academic resume, Ms. Little has had many leadership roles such as Class of 2016 President, Treasurer and founding member of the HHS theater department, Co-editor of the yearbook, and Co-Captain of the Varsity Soccer team. She has also been active in the community choir, Girl Scouts of America, Pathfinders of Perry County, Little Theater of Hazard, and HYPSCL rec-league soccer.

“When I heard I had won this scholarship I was overwhelmed and could not believe what I was hearing,” Ms. Little said. “It has been such a great help to me and my family. Now that I have graduated, I am attending Alice Lloyd College and have been accepted into the Honors Program. Receiving this scholarship allows me to pay for my room and board, while following a Pre-Med track.”

Appalachian Connection was established in November 2015. Its mission is to ease the financial burden of higher education for deserving students in Appalachian schools. Appalachian Connection is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization that provides scholarships to four year colleges. The scholarships have a value of $10,000 ($2,500 per year) and are awarded to applicants who demonstrate academic achievement, impact in the community, and a desire to utilize their education to help further our Appalachian region.

Congratulations to Lauren.