The Shallow Ford Foundation is excited to announce the hiring of Jon Huggins as the new Shore Scholars Program Coordinator, bringing a deep commitment to student success to the college access and mentoring program.
Jon brings more than 30 years of experience in education to the Shallow Ford Foundation, having retired from Yadkin County Schools in 2025 after a longtime career as a teacher and coach. Passionate about helping students succeed, he spent the last eighteen years teaching English at Forbush High School. He continues to substitute teach and coach basketball. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his two grown children and staying connected to the community he has served throughout his career.
"Jon's lifelong dedication to students and his strong relationships throughout Yadkin County make him an excellent fit for Shore Scholars," said Emmy Corn, President and CEO of the Shallow Ford Foundation. "His experience as an educator, mentor, and coach will help strengthen the program's impact and support students as they pursue their college and career goals."
In his new role, Jon will work alongside the Foundation and designated school-based mentors to help coordinate opportunities, workshops, college advising, and other resources that support participating student journeys to higher education and beyond.
Shore Scholars was launched in 2019 through a partnership between the Shallow Ford Foundation and Yadkin County Schools and serves selected students at Starmount and Forbush High Schools. The program has served well over 100 motivated students who aspire to attend college and could benefit from additional guidance along the way.
Ten students from each school are selected annually, entering the program as juniors and remaining involved through their sophomore year of college. Through mentorship, peer support, skill-building workshops, and college advising, participants gain the tools and encouragement needed to stay focused on their goals. The program is underwritten by the Wayne & Bradley Shore Endowment Fund of the Shallow Ford Foundation.
"We are excited to welcome Jon to the Shore Scholars program," said Greg Keener, Program Officer of the Shallow Ford Foundation. "His passion for education and his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing students today will be invaluable as we continue to impact students in Yadkin County."
To learn more about Shore Scholars, visit www.shallowfordfoundation.org/shore-scholars.
