Floyd County, KY — A new scholarship honoring the legacy of Bonita Compton—a devoted educator, coach, community leader, and lifelong advocate for Floyd County—has been established to support local Floyd County high school students pursuing a post-secondary degree or certification. The endowed scholarship fund is held at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky.
Born October 20, 1959, in Martin, Kentucky, Bonita dedicated over 30 years to the Floyd County Board of Education as a teacher, school administrator, coach, and mentor. She passed away peacefully at home on January 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and community commitment.
“Bonita believed every student deserved a chance to succeed—on the court, in the classroom, and in life,” says Kathy King Allen, Chief Community Officer at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. “This scholarship ensures her passion lives on, empowering the next generation of educators, students, and coaches in Floyd County.”
Throughout Compton’s career, she served 12 seasons as head coach for Allen Central High School girls’ basketball. She was recognized as 15th Region Coach of the Year and was a recipient of the Reebok Coaching Award. Compton also held roles as Director of Athletics, Director of Pupil Services, and Director of Transportation—all within Floyd County—advocating for student safety, academic success, and athletic distinction. She was also involved in community leadership with an active role on the Martin City Council and the local advisory committee of ARH Our Lady of the Way hospital. Compton severed several years on the ARH Board of Trustees.
The scholarship will open in Fall 2025 and be awarded to a graduating senior(s) from a Floyd County high school in Spring 2026. The application will be open to all seniors graduating with a 2.5 or higher GPA from a Floyd County high school and pursuing a post-secondary degree or certification.
Donations to the Bonita Compton Scholarship fund can be made online at https://bit.ly/bonitacomptonscholarship or mailed to the Floyd County Community Foundation, Bonita Compton Scholarship fund, PO Box 1734, Prestonsburg, KY, 41653.
About the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky:
The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky is a tax-exempt, nationally-accredited community foundation serving Appalachian Kentucky, pooling donations to address local needs and support local nonprofits. The Foundation empowers local communities through their affiliate network, fostering collaboration for a stronger region. They believe that investing in the people rooted in communities is the way to make them better. To learn more, visit https://www.appalachianky.org/.
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