Branson, Mo. Skaggs Foundation awarded a record 66 scholarships totaling $42,750 to local students pursuing education in healthcare and related fields during a reception held May 6, 2026, at Ozarks Technical Community College’s Table Rock Campus. The scholarships support students enrolled in the summer and fall 2026 semesters.
This marked the largest number of scholarships ever awarded at one time by Skaggs Foundation and the largest turnout for a scholarship reception, with nearly 90 students, family members, and friends in attendance.
The evening featured remarks from Hannah Forrest, a former Skaggs Foundation scholarship recipient and Branson Schools graduate who now serves the community as a Nurse Practitioner. Forrest encouraged students to work hard, persevere, and remain focused on their personal “why.” She and her husband are currently preparing to open their own clinic in the Branson area.
Students also heard from Dr. Rob Griffith of OTC–Table Rock Campus, who emphasized the importance of consistently showing up, building relationships, and expressing gratitude through simple acts such as shaking hands and sending thank-you notes.
Grace Nash, Program Coordinator for Skaggs Foundation, encouraged recipients to stay present throughout their journeys and allow their sense of purpose to guide them through challenges.
Skaggs Foundation’s scholarship program continues to expand, reflecting its commitment to supporting students and strengthening the local healthcare workforce. For more information about Skaggs Foundation and its scholarship program, visit SkaggsFoundation.org.
Recipients include: Jazmelody Alexander, Kaylor Alms, Lorelei Arth, Angel Asbeuri, Joshua Avina, Jennifer Badajoz, Keira Bell, Briana Bledsoe-Pebley, McKenzie Calhoun, Cassandra Carter, Briana Casey, Christopher Casey, Shattik Chowdhury, Logan Cleek, Hailey Cole, Heath Cole, Sarah Cox, Ellie Dunagan, Shelby Evans, Frinee Garcia, Kaylee Geniuk, Lucy George, Alexis Hall, Mylee Hampsch, Remington Holmes, Neeley Houston, Makenzie Hudson, Astrid Knittel, Kollin Kolb, Timy Kovalenko, Camirin Lee, Zoey Maddox, Olivia Markes, Jessica McCarty, Jordan Mayfield, Allison Miller, Lexus Newlyn, Kayci Norris-Hill, Kylie Perkins, Stephanie Pitcox, Maci Rogers, Jammi Scoggins, Shelby Seay, Dulce Vallejo, Taylor Vanderpluym, Shane Walters, Kenleigh Weaver, Taylee Wilkerson, Lynna Wolfe, and a student who asked to remain anonymous.
