WEST JEFFERSON, N.C.—Two Alleghany High School graduates are among 47 recipients of the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) scholarship. This year alone, the FRS has contributed more than $100,000 in college scholarships to students in rural communities across the U.S. who are served by members of NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association.
 |
 s |
|
| Corey Crouse | Hunter Maines |
Corey Crouse, son of Isaac and Debbie Crouse of Sparta, plans to study welding at Wilkes Community College. Hunter Maines, son of Bobby and Betty Maines of Sparta, plans to attend Surry Community College in the fall to study business. Each student will receive a $2,500 award, with $2,000 provided by the FRS and $500 provided by the program’s local sponsor, SkyLine Membership Corporation.
"FRS is extremely proud of our college scholarship program and the people who make it possible: the astounding students who apply and the supportive companies that sponsor them," said FRS Executive Director Jessica Golden. "Our 47 scholarship winners have proven their academic abilities—often despite challenging personal circumstances—and have also showcased a remarkable love and appreciation for their communities. We wish all awardees the best in their future endeavors and hope they feel a great sense of support and community pride."
The FRS Scholarship Program begin in 2005, and SkyLine became a local sponsor in 2006. Thus far, 15 area students have received FRS-related scholarships, including Jade Shepherd of Alleghany County, who received a $2,500 scholarship in 2016. SkyLine is pleased to have the opportunity to give back to the communities it serves by supporting local scholarships and national scholarships through the FRS.
About the FRS
The FRS, in cooperation with NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association and its members, seeks to sustain and enhance the quality of life in America by advancing an understanding of rural issues. Similarly, FRS is committed to educational achievement in rural communities, recognizing that tomorrow's economic and civic development depends on the involvement and success of today's students.
About NTCA
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association is the premier association representing more than 800 independent, community-based telecommunications companies that are leading innovation in rural and small-town America. NTCA advocates on behalf of its members in the legislative and regulatory arenas, and it provides training and development; publications and industry events; and an array of employee benefit programs. In an era of exploding technology, deregulation and marketplace competition, NTCA’s members are leading the IP evolution for rural consumers, delivering technologies that make rural communities vibrant places in which to live and do business. Because of their efforts, rural America is fertile ground for innovation in economic development and commerce, education, health care, government services, security and smart energy use.
About SkyLine
Based in West Jefferson, SkyLine Membership Corporation is a member-owned cooperative which provides a variety of telecommunications services to customers in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties in North Carolina and Johnson County in east Tennessee. Along with mission of providing state-of-the-art communications and technology solutions, SkyLine is committed to enhancing the quality of life across the region through various charitable, educational and economic development programs. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, SkyBest Communications, offers de-regulated products and services, including broadband Internet services, voice services, business systems and networking solutions, security monitoring and medical alert, digital TV service and automation/surveillance.