Mason B. Richardson and Mary Beth Burton were recently nominated for the KSBA FIRST DEGREE COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM. These students have the required ACT Score and would be the first individuals in their immediate families to earn a degree.

Mason plans to attend the University of Kentucky and participate in their AFROTC Program and upon graduation enter the United States Air Force as an officer. His plans include working as a Crypto Linguist. He has been greatly influenced by the high school counselors while selecting a career path and determining the educational route to make it a reality.   

Mary Beth plans to pursue a career in Graphics Design while attending Somerset Community College. Mary Beth credits the teachers at Somerset for guiding her to the perfect career path. She feels that everyone has always been willing to “go that extra step” while preparing her for the future.

Mason and Mary Beth are actively involved in the school and community. Both are members of the Band, participate in FCA, and are active in their respective churches. Mason does the announcements at Somerset High School and assists Mr. Mitchell with classroom tasks. Mary Beth recently donated 90 hours to a community project and they have requested her assistance next year.   These two individuals manage many extracurricular activities while tackling a vigorous academic schedule.

Ms. Beverly Stevenson, Band Director says, “Both of these students are hardworking, reliable, and each is incredibly creative! Mary Beth is very talented in visual arts and Mason is truly creative in how he thinks about solving problems.”   Both students are determined to succeed and are thankful for the support and encouragement they receive from family, friends, and teachers. Mason B. Richardson and Mary Beth Burton have the attitude, drive, and skills necessary to accomplish great things and Somerset Independent is proud to be part of their journey!