Two students awarded Wells Family Scholarship

The University of Pikeville recently awarded undergraduate students Brooklyn Bates and Dawson Case with the first-ever Wells Family Scholarship. UPIKE Athletic Director Kelly Wells and his wife Shawne established the Wells Family Scholarship, which is awarded to an undergraduate student in the amount of $1,200 for one year.

Recipients qualify for the Wells Family Scholarship, whether a transfer or high school graduate, from Maysville, Ky., Floyd, Martin, Letcher, Rowan or Pike County and Mingo County, W.Va., and based upon accomplishments, leadership qualities, overcoming obstacles along with educational and career goals. 

The decision to create this scholarship from Wells and his family shows the continued commitment to helping the next generation of students pursue their education.

“The level of interest and high-level applicants for the scholarships was very impressive overall. It was a tough choice to limit this to just two awardees, as all the applicants had great credentials and impactful stories and experiences,” said Wells. “Dawson and Brooklyn rose to the top of the list and are very deserving. I look forward to seeing the impact these two have on our great area.”

Bates is majoring in nursing and is honored to be selected for the Wells Family Scholarship.

“I feel honored to be selected for such an outstanding scholarship that represents UPIKE so well,” said Bates. “I feel as if this scholarship will help me achieve my educational goals by assisting me in my college expenses and will push me to apply for more scholarships, internships and business opportunities.” 

Recipient Case plans to double major in political science and history with a minor in psychology. He reflected on a verse from the Bible that reminds individuals that giving should be voluntary and spring from a cheerful attitude, coming from the heart. 

“I feel relieved that I was given the Wells Family Scholarship to help me achieve my academic goals without the worry of finances,” said Case. “Remember 2 Corinthians 9:6 that says whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”