Bank Independent recently recognized two Northwest Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) students as recipients of the Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarship. The students were honored at a reception hosted by representatives from Bank Independent and NW-SCC.

Sophomore Skylar Wright has been awarded a renewal of the scholarship. A 2024 graduate of Brooks High School, Wright is currently pursuing studies in computer science at NW-SCC. Freshman Allison Inman is the scholarship’s newest recipient. Inman, a 2025 graduate of Deshler High School, is pursuing an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development and wants to be a teacher.

Bank Independent CEO Macke Mauldin congratulated the students on their achievements, sharing how the scholarship reflects the values of his father, the late Edward F. Mauldin.

“Throughout his life, he believed that education is one of the most important opportunities an individual can pursue. He often said that any exposure to an education is better than none at all. When speaking with young people about their future, he encouraged them to seek education no matter what they wanted to study or do. Exposure to this kind of learning opens your mind to new possibilities and helps you learn how to be a successful person.”

“You are not on this journey alone.” Mauldin continued. “You have your family, friends, and loved ones by your side—and you also have the 700 team members at Bank Independent cheering for your future and celebrating your success.”

“We consider this one of the best days of the year,” NW-SCC president, Dr. Jeff Goodwin said. “We are so grateful to have everyone here and deeply appreciate the incredible support Bank Independent has provided to the students of Northwest-Shoals Community College over the years. We are proud of this partnership and are thankful that Bank Independent shares our common goal of making this area a better place. This scholarship is a wonderful opportunity for our two recipients here today and we are excited for their future.”