PARIS, Tenn. — Trae Fenty of Paris has been named the inaugural recipient of the prestigious L. Don Ridgeway Humble and Kind Scholarship at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Henry/Carroll.
A third-trimester student in Allen Ashlock’s Residential Building Maintenance Program, Fenty has distinguished himself through outstanding professionalism, academic achievement, and leadership among his peers.
His accomplishments include earning the gold medal in the Postsecondary Commercial Roofing category at the 2026 SkillsUSA Tennessee Championships and placing fourth nationally at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. His success has attracted considerable attention from commercial roofing companies across the region, with several employers already extending job offers ahead of his anticipated graduation in December.
Established in 2024 by the Ridgeway family and friends, the L. Don Ridgeway Humble and Kind Scholarship honors the legacy of the late Don Ridgeway, a dedicated public servant and respected community leader from Paris, Tennessee. Ridgeway devoted his life to serving others, including 18 years in the Tennessee General Assembly and six years on the Henry County School Board. His commitment to leadership, service, and community continues to inspire students pursuing career and technical education at TCAT Henry/Carroll.
The scholarship recognizes students who exemplify the values of humility, kindness, hard work, and service to others, qualities that Fenty has consistently demonstrated throughout his time at TCAT.
For more information about academic programs at TCAT Henry/Carroll or to support scholarship opportunities, call 731-644-7365 or visit www.tcathenrycarroll.edu.