Three local high school seniors with aspirations in the healthcare field have been selected as recipients of scholarships from T.J. Regional Health, aimed at supporting their college education.
The T.J. Educational Scholarship Program, designed to foster talent and support the future healthcare workforce, targets students within the organization’s service area across south central Kentucky. Stacey Biggs, Executive Vice-President with T.J. spoke with WCLU about the thought process behind offering the scholarship to healthcare aspirants.
In a press release, Neil Thornbury, CEO of T.J. Regional Health, emphasized the significance of investing in the community and nurturing talent within the healthcare industry. “Offering college scholarships is just one way that we invest in our communities, attract talented individuals to the healthcare field, and contribute to the long-term success of the industry,” Thornbury stated. “Assisting our future workforce with their college expenses is a win-win for everyone.”
Biggs also named this year’s scholarship recipients, all hailing from the Barren River Area, with altruistic dreams of aiding those in need.
The three deserving students selected for the $2,000 scholarship each in 2024 are:
Anna Grace Blythe, a senior at Metcalfe County High School, who has been accepted to Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY, to pursue a degree in nursing. Anna Grace’s dedication to healthcare is evident as she currently serves as a Certified Nursing Assistant at T.J. Health Columbia. Her future plans include obtaining a master’s degree and becoming a nurse practitioner.
Kensey Johnson, a senior at Glasgow High School, has her sights set on Western Kentucky University, where she will study exercise science with the goal of becoming a physical therapist. Kensey’s personal experience with a rare bone disease inspired her career path after witnessing the positive impact of T.J. Samson’s physical therapy team on patients.
Alexandrea Barbour, a senior at Hart County High School, will also attend Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY, to pursue a degree in nursing. Alexandrea’s journey towards nursing was motivated by the compassionate care she and her family received from NICU nurses during a difficult time following the loss of her infant sister.
Each of these students has demonstrated exceptional dedication and passion for their chosen paths in healthcare. Their commitment to serving others and making a difference in their communities exemplifies the values cherished by T.J. Regional Health. Congratulations to Anna Grace Blythe, Kensey Johnson, and Alexandrea Barbour on being awarded the T.J. Educational Scholarships.
Their accomplishments serve as a testament to their hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment to pursuing careers that will positively impact the lives of others. Biggs summarized this with her closing remarks.