Bank Independent was proud to recognize two students from Northwest Shoals Community College as recipients of 2023 the Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship. The pair were honored at a reception from Bank Independent and NW-SCC representatives.
Sophomore Abbie Grace Petree is a second-time scholarship recipient. She is a 2022 graduate of Vina High School and is studying to become an x-ray technician. Freshman Caige Smith is a first-time recipient and a 2023 graduate of Belgreen High School. He is currently enrolled in the FAME Program and NW-SCC.
Bank Independent President Macke Mauldin congratulated the students on their achievements, explaining that his father, the late Edward F. Mauldin, never graduated from college, but it did not limit him from success. Mauldin added that his father believed that any exposure to college was better than no exposure at all.
“Bank Independent’s mission is to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and you have the support of all of our 700 team members,” said Mauldin. “With this scholarship comes responsibility. You’ve had a lot of people help get you where you are today. So, when you have the chance to help others, remember what has been done for you and pay it forward.
“The Edward Fennel Mauldin Scholarship is incredibly important to us and our students,” NW-SCC President Dr. Jeff Goodwin said. “I love that it's for first-generation students. That is important to me being a first-generation college student myself. We can’t thank the Mauldin family and Bank Independent enough for providing this scholarship opportunity for our students.”
About Bank Independent
Since 1947, Bank Independent has taken pride in serving the customers who count on us to be there for them when they need us most. With 32 traditional Sales Offices across North Alabama, an on-campus Deshler Tiger Branch, and the Digital Sales Office, we’re committed to providing the best service, designing the most desired products, and creating an overall excellent experience for every customer. As a local community bank, we believe in building relationships that run deep and last. All our team members reside in our local communities and believe in giving back through volunteering. To become part of a bank that makes a positive difference in people’s lives, visit us at bibank.com.