Beech Tree News Network

Auburn, KY, (February 8, 2021) – The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) announced the James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, a new scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities entering their first year of law school. FRS is the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, of which LTC Connect is a member.

With an active law career that spanned more than 70 years, James Bass helped secure funds for rural telephone systems to bring modern telephone service to rural areas. He was pivotal in the creation of NTCA, where he served as one of the organization’s earliest presidents. Bass continued his leadership with service for more than 50 years as legal counsel. Recognizing Bass’s impact to the industry and his passion for the legal profession, the NTCA Board of Directors established a scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities to attend law school. The first James L. Bass Legal Scholarship will be awarded in spring 2021 and will be at least $5,000.

“Jim was not only a founding member of NTCA, he was a guiding light for our association through much of his lifetime,” said Shirley Bloomfield, Chief Executive Officer of NTCA. “He spent his last years in service to the association as our general counsel where he helped guide our national board through growth and transformation. How fitting it is to honor him with a law school scholarship recognizing not only his passion for rural America but for the legal profession as well. My sincere thanks to all the NTCA members who so generously donated in Jim’s memory.”

"James Bass was one of the greatest men to ever practice law," said Greg Hale, General Manager of LTC Connect. "He was selfless, wise, and served his country and community with honor. This new scholarship is for first year law students that have an interest in rural causes while honoring one of the best friends rural broadband has ever had. Thanks for everything Mr. Bass! We miss you friend, but your legacy continues."

The deadline to be considered for the spring 2021 James L. Bass Scholarship is April 16, 2021.

Application materials and more information about the scholarship can be found at www.frs.org/programs/james-l-bass-legal-scholarship.