Phillip "Tony" Edwards

My name is Tony Edwards and this is my story. I grew up in Wise County and since 1994, have lived in Abingdon. My wife, Regina and I have been blessed with two great sons, Logan and Lance. Both are well adjusted, responsible young men. Logan has enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and will be leaving soon. Lance is a junior in high school with college intentions.

The value of a formal education was long evident, but the time and money just never seemed to coincide. Then in 1997, Regina stepped down to a part-time position and started school part-time. I worked full time for Bristol Virginia Utilities and started teaching folks to ride motorcycles on the weekends. This arrangement allowed her to complete her Accounting degree in 2003.

After her graduation, I continued with my commitments and enrolled in the distance education Environmental Science Program at Mountain Empire Community College. MECC's classes were more affordable than a University and available via internet. This enabled me to incorporate study into my schedule. I graduated with an A.A.S. degree and a 3.9+ GPA in 2004.

Regina now works for the Bristol TN Housing Authority and I continue teaching part-time for Virginia Highlands Community College and Harley-Davidson in the summer. My vision for the future has been to start a safety training center to serve the Tri-Cities but that will require some business sense, and thus some learning on my part. Last fall, the Center for Business and Industry at VHCC was offering classes related to small business, but before I could attend the first class, I lost my full-time job.

After becoming unemployed and with the motorcycle training season winding down, I was forced to take a position in another town, outside my field of training, and 62 miles from home. The pay is insubstantial, but I am thankful for the work. I am very dedicated to my family and committed to my obligations to provide for them. After applying for better positions, the importance of a Bachelor's degree has never been more manifest!

My family supports me regarding returning to school and is willing to sacrifice to help me, but Lance's education must come first. After much searching and prayer for provision, we are elated to find that WCQR is awarding a King College scholarship to Dads! I am extremely thankful for this timely opportunity and sincerely grateful to you for making this scholarship available.

Thank you,

Tony

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