The Shallow Ford Foundation officially welcomed a new group of students to the Shore Scholars Program during the Shore Scholars Induction Ceremony held Saturday, May 16th at the Willingham Theater at the Yadkin Arts Council and Cultural Center.

The ceremony marked the beginning of an exciting journey for 11 rising juniors and seniors from Forbush High School and Starmount High School who were selected through a competitive process.

Students inducted into the 2026–2027 Shore Scholars cohort include:
Forbush High School: Emma Griffin, Arianna Lane, Abigail Posey, Kristen Reynolds, Danielle Vestal Lobo, Leslie Zavala-Quintana
Starmount High School: Daisy Adams, Isabella Hicks, Hailey Holcomb, Lexie Royall, Tyson Skeens

Shore Scholars is a program of the Shallow Ford Foundation in partnership with Yadkin County Schools. Established through the generosity of the Wayne and Bradley Shore Fund of the Foundation, the program focuses on college preparation, mentorship, and meaningful community engagement. Selected students gain valuable skills and confidence to prepare them for future success while also making a positive impact in Yadkin County.

The induction ceremony featured remarks from Foundation staff, former Shore Scholar Carly Phillips, and Yadkin County Schools Superintendent Anthony Davis. Each speaker shared encouragement and insight as the newly selected students begin their journey in the program.

The Foundation was pleased to welcome a strong turnout of family members, school representatives, and community supporters, whose presence made the event especially meaningful for the students.

The Shallow Ford Foundation also extends a special thank you to the volunteer review committee whose time and thoughtful consideration made this year’s selection process possible. Members of the 2026 review team include Kevin Austin, Lawanda Brown, Becky Bryant, Jennifer Johnson, Tim Weatherman, and Sharon Yale.

“We are excited to see what lies ahead for this group of young leaders,” said Greg Keener, Program Officer of the Shallow Ford Foundation. “Each of these students has already demonstrated a commitment to growth, service, and leadership, and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to develop those strengths.”

The Shallow Ford Foundation extends its gratitude to the Yadkin Arts Council and Cultural Center for allowing the use of the theater and to the Shore family for making this life-changing opportunity possible.

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