Independence Bank’s Scholarship Program Celebrates 25 Years; Crosses $2 Million in Awards Independence Bank

OWENSBORO, Ky. [April 28, 2026] – Independence Bank proudly celebrates surpassing $2 million in total awards to Kentucky students as it marks the 25th anniversary of its annual Scholarship Program. The 2026 ceremony is especially notable, with a record number of more than 600 applicants. $173,026 is being allocated this year alone.

The Independence Bank Scholarship Program began with an initial award of $10,000 in 2001 and was a dream of Bank founder Charles Reid. Today, with the guidance and support of Chairman Chris Reid, it has grown into one of the region’s most impactful educational support initiatives.

“We are thrilled to reach this incredible milestone of 25 years of supporting our community’s students,” Independence Bank CEO Greg Mullican shared. “This program has always been about more than just financial aid; it’s about helping students reach their dreams through higher education, technical training or career development. We consider it an honor to give back in such a meaningful way.”

An in–person reception was held on Tuesday, April 28 at Independence Bank’s Frederica Street location in Owensboro to celebrate the scholarship recipients and this historic milestone. The event brought together students and their families from 15 different counties to recognize their hard work and dedication.

The scholarship program is open to local high school seniors who are selected through a comprehensive review process that considers academic achievement, financial need, extracurricular involvement, community service and personal essays.

“The heart of the Independence Bank Scholarship Program has always been about empowering students to reach their full potential,” Independence Bank Charitable Foundation Manager Lauren Patton reflected. “We believe that every student, regardless of their financial background, deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams. This program is a testament to the bright futures of the young people who will help shape it. We look forward to continuing this tradition for many more years to come.”

Independence Bank greatly appreciates its dedicated employees and board members who have either generously donated to the fund or supported the scoring and selection process for applicants. Without this commitment and contribution, the scholarship program would not be the success that it is today.

Top Winners

Kamryn Trout,Henderson County High School

Charles A. Reid Scholarship, $15,000

Hannah Holder, Apollo High School

Marjorie Reid Scholarship, $10,000

Will Martin, Owensboro Catholic High School

Marjorie Reid Scholarship, $7,600

Nolan Johnson, Daviess County High School

Chairman’s Scholarship, $10,000

LaShay Vera, Apollo High School

John Thacker Scholarship, $10,000

Malachi Patterson, Madisonville North Hopkins High School

Guy Reisz Scholarship, $5,000

Ella Kemp, Graves County High School

Maurice E. Reisz Scholarship, $5,000

Ava Rhodes, Trinity High School

Kenny and Debbie Lanham Scholarship, $5,000

Nick Bell, Murray High School

Agriculture Scholarship, $5,000

Bailey Moore, Henderson County High School

Agriculture Scholarship, $5,000

Sean Rhodes, Apollo High School

Ernie and Lou Davis Scholarship, $5,000

Charles A. Reid Finalists

Ellie Chetawatee, Murray High School