by FORT MILL, SC — Broad River Retail (BRR), one of the largest and fastest-growing independently owned and operated Ashley Store licensees, awarded $72,500 in scholarships to 10 recipients through its Founders Scholarship Fund for the 2023-2024 academic school year.
“Earning this scholarship is a recognition of academic achievement and a reflection of remarkable character and potential,” Manny Rodrigues, Broad River Retail chief operating officer said. “These scholarship winners demonstrated commitment to pursuing knowledge, pushing boundaries, and embracing opportunities that have truly paid off. They have demonstrated a level of excellence that is inspiring. Broad River Retail would like to extend our warmest congratulations to these 10 exceptional individuals for their outstanding achievements.”
The Founders Scholarship Fund winners:
• Amahri Boykin
• Nicole Castoro
• Emelyne Henderson
• Regan Hodge
• Joseph Leimkuhler
• Melanie Maldonado
• Kaiya McDonald
• Jelani Pope
• Vince Sayles
• Laura Spencer
“These remarkable recipients have exuded passion and dedication, and their futures are bright with endless possibilities,” Charlie Malouf, Broad River Retail President and CEO said. “These scholarships serve as a token of gratitude from our co-founders and continue to exemplify Broad River Retail’s commitment to fostering personal growth and development.”
“Broad River Retail’s purpose is our people and being able to serve them with this fund and provide opportunities that are life-changing is incredibly powerful,” added Heather Greenwood, associate director of Memory Maker Experience. “By investing in our people and their futures, the Founders Scholarship Fund illuminates who we are at our core as a company. We know this year’s recipients will furnish life’s best memories not only for themselves as they further their education but also for others whom they will impact for years to come.”
Scholarship amounts were awarded in various tiers: silver, gold, platinum, and diamond. The scholarship grants were up to $15,000 annually, divided equally between two semesters. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, fees, and approved housing provided by the school.
“These scholarships are more than just financial support; they affirm the talent, potential, and limitless possibilities that lie ahead,” Rodrigues said. “It is an investment in their future, providing them with the means to pursue their educational dreams and make a significant impact in their chosen field.”
Thirty-nine candidates applied for the Founders Scholarship Fund. Candidates completed a scholarship application and answered writing prompts, including a “Life’s Best Memories” essay.
The Founders Scholarship Fund was created in 2019 to provide opportunities for Memory Makers (i.e., employees of Broad River Retail) or their children. The scholarship fund was in conjunction with the financial support of Broad River Retail’s co-founders, Jonathan Ishee
and Jackson Moore. The fund’s mission is to provide opportunities for students to create their best memories and thrive without financial burden. In total, Broad River Retail awarded over $185,000 in scholarships since the creation of The Founders Scholarship Fund.
Broad River Retail is highlighting this year’s scholarship winners and their remarkable stories on its podcast, Stories from the River (SFTR). SFTR is released on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
