Country Cookin awarded a $3,000 scholarship to Asia Sawyer, an employee at their Troutville location.

Company president David Preston said, “We are pleased to be able to offer this scholarship program for our employees. To excel scholastically and be a valued employee is a great accomplishment.” Asia, a five year employee, attends Virginia Western Community College where she is studying to become a Nurse. She said, “This job has made me more independent and has help me build a good work ethic by taking on more responsibility. I have learned to take pride in my job and have come to enjoy every day I work here”.

This year’s winners also include:

Holly Baugess – Christiansburg – $5,000

Trevor Campbell – Roanoke-Brambleton Ave. – $1,000

Annamarie Everett – Staunton – $1,000

Colton Forren – Lexington – $1,000

Jennifer Hankins – Martinsville – $1,000

Jihyun Jane Kim – Harrisonburg – $1,000

Joshua Marks – Culpeper – $1,000

Russell Thomas – Roanoke-Melrose Ave. – $1,000

Alexander Tillford – Warrenton – $1,000

Sahara Toler – Madison Heights – $1,000

Since 1998, the Country Cookin Memorial Scholarship has awarded $152,000 to deserving employees toward a higher education. It was established in memory of Willie Jenkins and Roger Smith. Jenkins, a long-term employee and District Manager, died of brain cancer in 1996. Smith, Country Cookin’s founder, loved seeing his employees excel. He died in 1998. Employees are welcome to apply for the scholarship from January 1st until May 5th. They must be in good standing at work and school, and receive a letter of recommendation from their supervisor. Past winners are also eligible.

Country Cookin is a chain of home-style restaurants based in Roanoke, VA, with 15 locations throughout the state. Guests choose from a wide range of affordably priced entrees, which come complete with a choice of potato and Endless Salads & Sides, the all-you-can-eat salad, country vegetables, and dessert bar. Weekday Breakfast Buffet is offered daily in most locations and Premium Weekend Breakfast Buffet, including an omelet bar, made-to-order specialty pancakes, and more, is served Saturday and Sunday at most locations.

–Submitted by Country Cookin’