Over the last 2 years, South Central Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (SCRTC) proudly sponsored local students for scholarships through the Foundation for Rural Service. In 2024, Cabot Boling was the winner of a V&C Trust Scholarship worth $9,500, 1 of just 2 awarded nationwide. Last year, Ben Shirley received a $2,500 FRS scholarship. Both are graduates of Metcalfe County High School in Edmonton.
Providing scholarship opportunities like these is 1 of the most important ways SCRTC supports our community. We are always excited to see what our students can achieve and to help open the door to new opportunities for them.
“We love supporting the future of our community by investing in students like Cabot and Ben,” says General Manager Jeff Eaton. “Here at SCRTC, we believe access to technology and education go hand in hand, and these scholarships reflect our commitment to helping local students succeed.”
While still early in his college career, Ben has already felt the impact of that commitment. He is taking classes at Southern Kentucky Community and Technical College to complete his associate degree before transferring to Western Kentucky University to pursue an accounting degree.
“I feel incredibly grateful to receive this support from my local cooperative,” he says. “This scholarship has helped me focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. It means a lot to know that my local community believes in my potential and is investing in my future.”
Meanwhile, Cabot is currently attending Duke University, where he is pursuing a degree in public policy. His ultimate goal is to become a political advocate for rural communities like the 1 he grew up in.
“I come from a place full of hardworking people who have always supported me, even when resources were scarce,” Cabot says. “Studying public policy gives me the chance to return that support, to advocate for my hometown and rural communities like it, especially when it feels like no 1 else is paying attention.”
Both scholarship recipients encourage any students interested in FRS scholarships to take the time to apply. In particular, Cabot reminds them to embrace their roots as an important part of who they are and where they’re going.
“Lead with passion and honesty, and don’t be afraid to tell your story the only way you can,” he says. “Remember that where we come from is not a limitation. It’s part of your strength. Never count yourself out because of it.”