Bridging Ambition & Hope…in Central Texas
Get to Know Us
The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship™
Welcome to the Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship website! We are truly honored that you have taken the time to visit and learn more about this special opportunity. This scholarship holds a deep and meaningful place in our hearts, as it is dedicated to continuing Barbara Ann Horton’s legacy of compassion, determination, and commitment to education. Finding this scholarship means more than just financial support—it represents a connection to a community that believes in your potential and wants to help you succeed. We are excited to support you on your educational journey and look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will make in the world. Thank you for being here and for allowing us to be part of your path forward.
The BAH! Mission
​
The mission of The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship is to honor her legacy by providing financial bridge-funding to graduating seniors in McLennan and Limestone Counties. We are dedicated to easing the transition from high school to higher education for students of Mart and Mexia High schools, ensuring that the spirit of community and the pursuit of knowledge continue to thrive in the heart of Texas.
· The scholarship is a continuation of Barbara’s commitment to others.
· We honor the students who are our neighbors.
· 100% of your donations go to student awards.
Support the Long Term Goal today; with your donation.
Our Vision
As we endeavor to support our 2026 graduates, every dollar donated stays local, going directly to students who have demonstrated character and ambition. The scholarship awards $1000.00 to a deserving graduating student of Mart and Mexia High schools. Our long-term goal is to increase our endowment to provide a $1,500.00 scholarship to each recipient. We work together with local educators to identify
students who embody the values Barbara held dear.
· Mart High – McLennan County
· Mexia High– Limestone County
BAH! honors a life defined by community spirit and the belief that every student deserves a fair chance to succeed. We carry her legacy forward by bridging the gap between high school and higher education for the next generation of leaders in McLennan and Limestone Counties.
To maintain a fair and professional selection process, all applications must be submitted directly through the High School Guidance Counselor.
Community Engagement
BAH! honors a life defined by community spirit and the belief that every student deserves a fair chance to succeed. We carry her legacy forward by bridging the gap between high school and higher education for the next generation of leaders in McLennan and Limestone Counties
To maintain a fair and professional selection process, all applications must be submitted directly through the High School Guidance Counselor.
Supporting Our Schools
We work closely and collaboratively with local educators, counselors, and school administrators to carefully identify students who truly embody the values and principles that Barbara held dear throughout her life. By partnering with those who know the students best, we ensure that our selection process highlights individuals who demonstrate not only academic achievement but also integrity, kindness, perseverance, and a strong commitment to their communities. This collaborative approach allows us to honor Barbara’s legacy by supporting students who reflect her spirit and dedication, helping to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Information for Application: The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship is awarded annually.
To apply, please contact the Guidance Counselor’s office at your respective
high school for application processes, forms and deadlines.
​
Her Story
One Name. Two Counties Endless Potential
Barbara was born in and grew up in McLennan County where she attended Mart Schools from K-12. She continued her post high school first two-year studies at MCC. After a few years abroad and traveling she began her career as an educator with the Head Start Program. There she worked with the children in Mart until she retired. She believed that education was the ultimate bridge to a better life.
Throughout her journey, Barbara didn't just walk her own path; she spent her time building ways for others to get where they were going. Whether it was through a kind word, a helping hand, or her unwavering belief in the people of the community that she loved so sincerely; she was constantly "bridging" the gap between where someone was and where they dreamed of being.
For many, the road between McLennan and Limestone is just a twenty-mile stretch of Texas highway. But to those of us who live here, it is more than that—it is a path of shared history, deep-rooted rivalry, boundless ambition and hope!
The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship™ evolved from the Medlock Memorial Scholarship after her death in 2018. The Scholarship awards $1000.00 to a graduating student of Mart and Mexia High Schools in Central Texas annually. This Scholarship ensures her legacy continues by easing the financial burden for students in the two counties that they call home, Barbara believed in the power of community.
The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship (BAH!) was born from a simple realization: Barbara’s life was, itself, a bridge
The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship (BAH!) was established to honor a life defined by community spirit and the belief that every student deserves a fair chance to succeed. Barbara believed in the power of "showing up" for her neighbors. Today, we carry that legacy forward by bridging the gap between high school and higher education for the next generation of leaders in McLennan and Limestone Counties Texas.
The Barbara Ann Horton Scholarship (BAH!) was born from a simple realization:
Barbara’s life was, itself, a bridge.