Dawson Wright (left) performs on stage with Randall Franks and the Hollywood Hillbilly Jamboree
photo by Regina Watkins
The Share America Foundation, Inc. announced its 2022 Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship winners at the Colonnade in Ringgold.
The scholarship honors students excelling in the Appalachian musical arts. Pearl and Floyd Franks are the late parents and former entertainment managers of actor/entertainer Randall Franks, "Officer Randy Goode" from TV's "In the Heat of the Night."
Musician Dawson Wright, 16, of Ringgold, was selected as a Scholarship Designee.
"Dawson is an exceptional musician who has tremendous potential to create amazing music," Mr. Franks said. "I know he will touch hearts with his talents."
Mr. Wright will receive a scholarship from the organization when he starts college.
“I hope to do a career pathway in music. I look forward to this being a good start towards my music studies,” he said.
Mr. Wright is a banjo stylist, guitarist, mandolinist and bass player who is a junior at Ringgold High School. He began playing at the age of 12 and currently performs with Seth Coley and the Rabbit Valley Boys. He also appeared with Mr. Franks and his Hollywood Hillbilly Jamboree at its 77th Anniversary Show this year. Mr. Wright is son of David and Lena Wright of Ringgold.
Share America Foundation Board members include Mr. Franks; Chairman Gary Knowles; Jimmy Terrell, vice chairman; James Pelt, secretary; and Jerry Robinson, Sr., vice president.
The Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship is funded by donations from individuals and companies such as the lifestyle company – www.HillbillyLove.com, special events and special projects such as the Share America Foundation’s #1 Global Americana CD – “Americana Youth of Southern Appalachia” released in partnership to radio by AirPlay Direct. The project was also supported with grants from North Georgia Electric Membership Corporation Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Ringgold and the Wes and Shirley Smith Charitable Endowment and is still available for donation at www.ShareAmericaFoundation.org or through download outlets like Amazon.
Dawson Wright on YouTube with Randall Franks and the Hollywood Hillbilly Jamboree Sally Goodin’ featuring Dawson on Three-Finger Banjo:
https://youtu.be/PWJo6lBEmOc.
Boil Dem Cabbage Down with Dawson on Clawhammer Banjo:
https://youtu.be/iBLtmMR4j5Q.
Randall Franks (right) presents Dawson Wright with his Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship designee certificate
photo by Share America