Six University of North Alabama students were recognized by representatives from Bank Independent and UNA as the 2025 recipients of the Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship.

Undergraduate students receiving scholarships were LaShaya Jackson, Freshman, Chemistry; Henry Ajulip Huarcas, Sophomore, Computer Science; Ashton Bright, Junior, Criminal Justice; and Kadi Norato, Senior, Nursing. Graduate recipients included Zoey Kelley, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Anya A. Smith, Elementary Education.

Bank Independent CEO 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.

“We want the scholarship recipients to know they’re not alone in this journey,” said Mauldin. “Bank Independent is here to help you in any way that we can and know that our entire team of 700 team members is here to support you on your journey. And with that comes responsibility. Remember that someone has reached out their hand to help and support you, and it’s now your job to pay it forward and reach out your hand to help someone else.”

“Our partnership with Bank Independent and the Mauldin family is a celebration of academic excellence and a relationship that has grown tremendously over the years,” said UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts. “From financial support and event sponsorships to Bank Independent leaders serving on university boards and committees, the impact is evident across our campus. We are deeply grateful for all that Bank Independent does to support our students and community.”

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 33 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