Elijah Carnes Paige Gillert Torey Sawyer Addison Stephens Ryder Malone
Recipients of the 2026 Caring for America First Responder Scholarships each received $ 1,500 to help pursue careers in law enforcement, fire and medical services. The scholarship program is funded through community donations, sponsors and the annual First Responder Scholarship Benefit Car Show scheduled for July 25 in Athens.( Courtesy photos)
program awarded scholarships to Charlie Joe Grogan III of Eustace High School, Austin Massingill of Malakoff High School and Kendall Penland of Mabank High School.
Grogan planned to enter fire services, following in the footsteps of family members who served before him. Active in FFA, baseball, community service projects and his own handyman business, he had already accumulated college credit while still in high school. Today, he serves with the Forney Fire Department and volunteers with the Bullard Fire Department after completing EMT and Fire Academy training. Earlier this year, he was named Rookie of the Year by the Forney Fire Department.
Massingill also chose a future in fire services, continuing a family tradition that included three generations of Dallas firefighters. A standout athlete involved in golf, baseball, football and track, he demonstrated the work ethic and determination the committee seeks in scholarship recipients. Since July 2024, he has served with Dallas Fire-Rescue, fulfilling the goal he set as a high school senior.
These success stories are exactly what the scholarship program was designed to accomplish- helping local students pursue careers dedicated to serving others while strengthening the future of public safety in Texas.
This year, Caring for America awarded five scholarships to Henderson County graduates pursuing careers in first response and healthcare. This year’ s recipients each received a $ 1,500 scholarship based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement and a demonstrated commitment to serving others.
Elijah Carnes of Athens High School plans to pursue a career in fire services. He graduated with a 3.82 GPA while earning dual-credit coursework and participating in athletics, community service and church activities. Educators described him as compassionate, responsible and always willing to encourage and assist others.
Paige Gillert of Athens Christian Preparatory Academy plans to enter the nursing profession. Maintaining a 4.09 GPA while balancing dual-credit classes and extracurricular activities, Gillert was recognized by educators not only for her academic excellence but also for her character, leadership and positive influence on those around her.
Torey Sawyer of Cross Roads High School hopes to become a paramedic. In addition to earning a 94.2 GPA, she remained active in school, community and church activities. Teachers cited her commitment to service, leadership and mentorship as qualities that set her apart.
Addison Stephens of Mabank High School plans to pursue a nursing career. A 4.45 GPA student, Stephens was praised for her caring nature, positive attitude and willingness to serve others while remaining active in numerous academic and community activities.
Fellow Mabank graduate Ryder Malone also plans to enter the nursing field. Educators highlighted his empathy, kindness and dedication
8 | Greater Athens Magazine | June 2026