Middlesboro Alumni & Friends scholarship established to support SKCTC students

Published on Jul 21, 2025

A new scholarship fund aimed at supporting local students has been established at Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College, thanks to the generosity and long-term vision of the Middlesboro Alumni & Friends Committee and Golf4Grants through the Middlesboro Independent Education Foundation.

Local student Sierra Higgins has been named as the first recipient of the Middlesboro Alumni & Friends Scholarship, which provides $1,500 annually to a deserving Middlesboro High School graduate enrolled at SKCTC.

“Our goal is to support students wherever they are in life—whether returning to school or starting fresh,” said Scott Ballard, a representative of both Alumni & Friends and Golf4Grants. “We believe in the community college, and the beauty of this scholarship is that it’s open to anyone who graduated from Middlesboro High School. The plan—and the vision—for the next 10 years is to fully endow this fund.”

David Mike, also representing the Middlesboro Alumni & Friends Committee, added, “We had a purpose from the beginning. Golf4Grants supports our teachers, and the association works to support students across all of our schools. It’s all about helping our community succeed.”

Tiffany Hampton, development officer at SKCTC, said Higgins is a wonderful first recipient to represent the scholarship initiative.

“She’s a fantastic student and a shining example of perseverance,” said Tiffany Hampton, development officer at SKCTC. “Sierra has shared her story through essays that truly show how Southeast helps students not just succeed—but survive and thrive.”

For complete eligibility details, contact the SKCTC Advancement Office at 606.589.3083.