COLUMBIA, KY (04/29/2026) A gift to Lindsey Wilson University will support student scholarship and advance a new academic degree program tailored to meet the needs of the region.
Bank of Columbia has contributed $20,000 to Lindsey Wilson, including $15,000 to the Tommy D. Grider Endowed Scholarship and $5,000 to support the university's agribusiness program.
The Tommy D. Grider Endowed Scholarship, named in honor of a longtime Bank of Columbia board member, is awarded annually to an Adair County High School graduate pursuing a degree in business or finance.
Bank of Columbia President and CEO Mark Dykes said the bank's investment in agribusiness reflects both the region's economy and workforce needs.
"Agriculture is a dominant part of our local economy, and this new agribusiness program is a great opportunity for students in our area," said Dykes. "There are a lot of career paths - from lending and ag sales to risk management and crop insurance - and this degree can lead to strong, well-paying jobs."
Dykes said the bank continues to support Lindsey Wilson because of its impact on the region.
"It means so much to the local economy and to the people of this community," said Dykes. "We want to support opportunities for students to stay close to home and receive a quality education."
Dean of the School of Business and Communication Benson Sexton '04 said the gift comes at a pivotal time for the university's agribusiness program.
"This kind of partnership with the Bank of Columbia is especially meaningful as we develop our agribusiness program," said Sexton. "Their investment as we launch this program is humbling, and we're confident it will be an excellent seed as we prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders in this region."
Lindsey Wilson University President William T. Luckey Jr. said the bank's continued support reflects a longstanding relationship with the institution.
"The Bank of Columbia has been a vital partner with Lindsey Wilson since its founding in 1903," said Luckey. "Their continued investment in an endowed scholarship will support local students for years to come, and their additional support for our agribusiness program shows they recognize the growing need for graduates in this field."
From left: Bank of Columbia Chief Credit Officer Michelle Powell, Bank of Columbia Chief Financial Officer Ashley Roy, Bank of Columbia President and CEO Mark Dykes, Lindsey Wilson President William T. Luckey Jr., Lindsey Wilson Dean of the School of Business and Communication Benson Sexton '04 and Lindsey Wilson Vice President for Academic Affairs Ray Lutgring.
