Announcing the 2024 Recipients of the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship
Published on: Sep 18, 2024
Frontline Source Group is thrilled to announce the esteemed recipients of the 2024 Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship in collaboration with the NGA Foundation. This scholarship honors the enduring impact of Ronnie Horton, a mentor whose guidance has left a lasting mark on countless employees and customers in the grocery industry.
Established by Bill Kasko and Mike Cook, who were profoundly influenced by Ronnie's mentorship, this scholarship aims to inspire and support aspiring grocery professionals. We extend our gratitude to the NGA Foundation for their invaluable support in preserving Ronnie Horton's legacy and perpetuating his mission of empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Congratulating the 2024 Scholarship Winners
We are excited to announce this year’s winners of the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship, administered by the NGA Foundation. Each recipient will receive $1,250 toward their studies in pursuit of a career in the grocery industry.
Hannah Christensen, Johnson & Wales University
Hannah is currently working as a cashier at Sam’s Club. She says, "Ultimately, I strive to positively impact the grocery industry by emphasizing sustainability, accessibility, and innovation to benefit both customers and our world."
Elijah Schipper, Augustana University
Elijah works as an assistant produce manager at Fareway Meat & Grocery. He shares, "I believe the grocery industry's responsibility towards its customers extends far beyond providing quality items in the store, but also maintaining a quality environment. I can't wait to be a part of the change for our communities and our industry."
Congratulations to Hannah and Elijah! We wish you both the best in your future endeavors.
About the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship
Bill Kasko and Mike Cook were both profoundly influenced by Ronnie Horton during their early careers at Brookshire’s. Bill went on to found Frontline Source Group, one of the fastest-growing executive search placement firms in the nation, while Mike stayed at Brookshire’s for 32 years before joining Frontline as the Executive Grocery Retail Recruiter.
Reflecting on their experiences, both men recognized that the key to their success was following Ronnie’s example. "I would sometimes wonder what I was doing right that other companies weren’t, and then I realized I was just following Mr. Horton’s lead," Kasko said.
To honor Ronnie’s legacy and continue his work of helping people become their best selves, Bill and Mike established the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship. “We were able to secure a scholarship to help send two individuals to college in his name,” said Kasko. “Now we can announce the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship to the world.”
With the support of the NGA (National Grocers Association) Foundation, this scholarship fund for young grocery professionals will ensure that Ronnie Horton's legacy endures. Applicants are required to write an essay about a person who inspires them, reflecting the inspiration Horton provided to so many.
Join us in celebrating and carrying forward Ronnie Horton's legacy, ensuring that his impact continues for generations to come.
2023 Recipients of the Ronnie Horton Legacy Scholarship