Branson Bank Awards Scholarships to High School Seniors

Branson Bank is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026 Scholarships, recognizing five outstanding graduating high school students living in Taney or Stone County for their academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to continued education.

Each year, the community bank awards three, one-time $1,000 scholarships to students pursuing degrees in finance or business at an accredited college. Candidates were required to submit proof of acceptance, a 500-word essay, a record of extracurricular activities and community service, and complete an in-person interview.

The recipients of the 2026 $1,000 Branson Bank Scholarships are:

Jace Fuller, graduate of Branson High School, will attend the University of Missouri to study Business Management/ Economics. Representing Branson Bank, Shawn Clemens, VP- Commercial Lender, NMLS #1402734

Kaden Mingus, graduate of Forsyth High School, will attend University of Arkansas to study Financial Management. Representing Branson Bank, Ryan Sanders, SVP – Community Bank Lender, NMLS #1199280

Connor Johnson, graduate of Hollister High School, will attend College of the Ozarks to study Finance. Representing Branson Bank, Norma Desrochers, AVP-Senior Relationship Banker

In addition, Branson Bank expanded its scholarship program this year awarding two, one-time $500 scholarships to students completing the Table Rock Career Center (TRCC) program. Student candidates were interviewed by TRCC administration and have plans to pursue industry certification, technical training or additional secondary education to advance their careers.

The TRCC recipients of the 2026 $500 Branson Bank Scholarships are:

Miley Thornton, graduate of Branson High School and student at TRCC, plans to pursue Early Education at Ozarks Technical Community College while Elijah Cramer, graduate of Forsyth High School and student at TRCC, plans to pursue Welding at Arkansas Elite. Representing Branson Bank are Erica Dees along with Mark Hyde, VP-Community Bank Lender, NMLS# 440836,

"We are honored to invest in the future of these exceptional students," said Eric Simkins, President at Branson Bank. "These scholarship recipients have demonstrated a strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication to both their education and their communities. Whether they are pursuing college degrees in business and finance or advancing their careers through technical and workforce training, we are proud to support their next steps and look forward to their future success."

Branson Bank remains committed to supporting educational opportunities and investing in the future of the communities it serves. Through various programs and scholarships, the bank strives to encourage academic achievement, career development, and community engagement among local students.

Branson Bank is a $408 million-asset community bank - that is a locally owned and controlled, state chartered financial institution with three locations in Branson, one location in Forsyth, and one location in Branson West. Founded in 2000, the community bank is dedicated to serving the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses in Taney and Stone Counties. With a focus on relationship banking and community involvement, Branson Bank has built a reputation for trust, service, and long-term commitment. Branson Bank – Member FDIC.

(Press release and photos from Branson Bank)