Bank Independent Honors Recipients of UNA’s Mauldin Scholarship

Seven University of North Alabama students were recognized by representatives from Bank Independent and UNA as the 2023 recipients of the Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship.

Undergraduate students receiving scholarships were Devin Riggs, Michael Burns, Ashton Pitt, Ashton Bright, and Kadi Redmon. Marquart Colton and Cassandra Forbes both received graduate scholarships. Bright, Colton, and Forbes were all first-year recipients of the scholarship.

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 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 team members,” said Mauldin. “One thing I want to emphasize to all of us today, including our recipients, is how blessed we are. You are beneficiaries of the Mauldin Scholarship because of the kindness of people who came before you. They didn't even know you, but they did things that you are now benefiting from. So, when you have the chance to help others, remember what has been done for you and pay it forward.”

“The Mauldin Scholarship provides an important pathway to success for students to attend UNA and achieve their dreams of attaining their education,” UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts said. “The University is grateful for Bank Independent and the Mauldin Family for this ongoing and vital scholarship opportunity for our first-generation 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 each and 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.