Big Sandy Community and Technical College has announced that Matthew Patton of Floyd County is the first recipient of the Wendell Lee Nickell Endowed Scholarship. The memorial scholarship was established last year by Wendell’s family after his passing in 2014. The scholarship is awarded to students majoring in Computer Information Technology or Broadband Technology. Patton is a graduate of Allen Central High School and said he is grateful for the scholarship, which allows him to go to college close to home. Kelli Hall Chaney, dean of career education and workforce development, said the generosity of Wendell’s family will provide students at BSCTC educational resources necessary for careers in the digital economy.