Appalachian Connection is pleased to announce the recipient of its 2017 scholarship. Ms. Stacie Fugate, a recent graduate of Hazard High School was awarded the scholarship on April 20, 2017 at a ceremony at her school. Ms. Fugate will receive a grant in the amount of $10,000 to be used towards her higher education. She plans to continue her studies at the University of Kentucky in the Fall.

“We had an absolutely amazing group of applicants this year,” said John Cornett, President of Appalachian Connection. “Everyone already knows that there are loads of incredibly bright and talented young people in Appalachia. But we had the unique privilege of really digging in and getting to know some of these folks, and when you do that it will absolutely blow your mind to witness the smarts and talents of this new generation of Appalachian youth. We ultimately chose Stacie because we felt she fit perfectly into our mission to find young people who will work hard throughout their lives to be a positive force in the Appalachian region. There’s no doubt Stacie will be a great asset to all those in her community throughout her life.”

Besides an impressive academic resume, Ms. Fugate has served in many leadership roles. She has served as a student advisor to the Hazard School Board, served as President of Hazard High School Theater, and created a self-started service project called No Princess Left Behind, which is focused on obtaining dresses, make-up, and other products and services for young women who cannot afford those amenities for prom. Stacie has been a member of the soccer team, academic team, and speech team. She has also served on the Appalachia Renaissance Initiative’s Student Senate, working regionally to add young voices to current economic revitalization initiatives.

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 Stacie.