The Mid-South Chapter of the Independent Telecommunications Pioneer Association (ITPA) is proud to award a $1,000 Billy D. Young Memorial Scholarship to Abigail “Abby” Lauren Kirk of Benton, Mississippi.
The award will be presented by Mid-South ITPA President James Conley during the June 2025 Broadband Association of Alabama and Mississippi (BAAM) Summer Symposium in Pensacola Beach, Florida.
Abby, a graduate of Benton Academy, balanced academics, leadership, and early career experience with a strong interest in helping others. She served on the yearbook staff, participated in the Yazoo City Crow Club, and worked part-time at Franklin Telephone Company. Abby plans to pursue a career in Pediatric Occupational Therapy. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Jennifer Peeples.
The Billy D. Young Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of Mr. Young, a U.S. Air Force veteran and lifelong telecommunications professional. The scholarship supports high school seniors and undergraduate students who are children or grandchildren of employees at BAAM member companies or the ITPA Mid-South Chapter.
Recipients are selected through a competitive two-phase process that emphasizes academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and a personal essay.
The Mid-South Chapter of the ITPA congratulates Abby on this well-earned recognition and wishes her continued success in her academic journey. Franklin Telephone Co. is a proud member and supporter of both BAAM and the ITPA Mid-South Chapter.
