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Sunflower Bank has awarded $8,750 in college scholarships to 12 high school students through its 2016 Community Ambassador’s Program intended to teach teens leadership skills and instill hometown pride. Scholarships were granted in $500, $1,000, and $1,500 increments to students in McPherson, Hays, Victoria, and Junction City, Kansas; Monte Vista and Pueblo, Colorado; and Leeton, Missouri. Scholarships going to students in Hays and Victoria total $2,750.

“We are honored to work with the talented up-and-coming adults in our communities to develop leadership skills and help make continuing education a reality,” said Mollie Carter, CEO and President of Sunflower Bank. “We strive to create possibility in our communities. This program personifies our culture and values.”

The Community Ambassador Program was born in 2006 in order to support higher education for local teens while encouraging pride in the community. Students get an insider’s look at what makes their hometown tick: entrepreneurship, economic development, local government, giving back, and more. Following the six session program, students are asked to submit an essay and scholarships are granted.

Since 2006, the Sunflower Bank has awarded scholarships to 291 students, totaling $223,100. The Bank intends to continue expanding the program in 2017. For more information, visit SunflowerBank.com.