HCHS Seniors Receive the LIS Innovation Scholarship 

Henry County High School (HCHS) Seniors, Kathryn (Katie) Bullion and Mason Elliott, were the first recipients of the LIS Innovation Scholarship. The scholarship, presented by L.I. Smith & Associates (LIS), recognizes students who have completed internships with the company and is designed to promote continued academic excellence and innovative thinking as students pursue higher education. 

“Henry County High School is so thankful to L.I. Smith for providing this internship opportunity to our students. This real-world experience goes beyond what we can teach them from books. Not only do the students learn more about their career of interest, but they learn the procedures and expectations of a professional work environment. Professional connections are made, and resumes are boosted,” Rebecca Bullion, HCHS Guidance Counselor, stated. 

The new scholarship originated from LIS President Patrick Smith’s commitment to giving back to the Henry County community. Through the implementation of this scholarship, Smith hopes to help encourage students to apply their skills and talents in the workplace and to contribute to innovation, both locally and across the world.  

Smith stated, “Seeing the capabilities of Katie and Mason has rejuvenated my excitement in our business and what we do in our day-to-day processes. By providing this scholarship, I am reminded that it is the youth that teach us the true reason we do what we do.” 

As interns, Bullion and Elliott have gained real-world experience, grown their academic talents, and furthered their leadership skills, all while learning about the civil engineering and surveying field. For nearly a year, Bullion has held a great number of responsibilities as the Administrative Intern. She works with the Administrative and Marketing Departments on various projects, including reporting, data entry, developing marketing communications, and acting as a brand ambassador at external events. Bullion has continuously proven that she can excel, both in academics and in the professional realm.  

As a Land Survey Intern, Elliott works closely with both the Survey and Administrative Departments. Over the past semester, he has learned to conduct deed research, create description templates for boundary surveys, and research flood map documents. Elliott always has a positive mindset and is willing to assist the LIS team with any and all projects that are thrown his way. 

“Mason and Katie have been a tremendous asset to our team. They are both eager to learn and bring a great attitude and a sense of excitement to our office— which has been contagious for our staff,” remarked Ashley Horn, Vice President of Marketing and Communications. “While we will miss having them on our team, we wish them the very best in their next chapters!” 

This one-time gift of $250 can be used to cover any education-related expenses, such as tuition, textbooks, housing, and other fees at a college, university, or technical school. To qualify for the scholarship, students must be a senior at HCHS with an average GPA of 3.0 or higher, be a current intern at LIS, and have worked as an intern continuously for a minimum of one semester.  

“The company gains a fresh, youthful perspective and possible future employees. It is just a win-win for both parties. This scholarship will recognize and help these students to cover the rising costs of essential secondary education. Thank you to L.I. Smith for supporting our seniors,” Bullion added. 

For more information about LIS internship program, please contact Horn at careers@lismith.com.