Augusta Health Foundation and First Bank and Trust Company Announce $50,000 Gift to Establish Endowment Supporting Healthcare Workforce Education

Fishersville, Va., May 12, 2026 – Augusta Health Foundation and First Bank and Trust Company are proud to announce a $50,000 donation from the First Bancorp, Inc. Foundation to establish the First Bank and Trust Endowment for Augusta Health Scholars, a permanent fund dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for Augusta Health team members pursuing careers in nursing and allied health professions.

The endowment will provide ongoing financial support to Augusta Health team members seeking to further their education, helping strengthen the healthcare workforce and expand access to high-quality care across the region.

This investment reflects a shared commitment between Augusta Health and First Bank and Trust Company to support professional growth, workforce development, and the long-term health of the communities they serve.

“Investing in education is one of the most meaningful ways we can strengthen our communities,” said Mark Nelson, President and CEO of First Bank and Trust Company. “Through the First Bank and Trust Endowment for Augusta Health Scholars, we are proud to support the dedicated healthcare professionals who care for our neighbors every day. By helping them advance their skills and careers, we are also investing in the future of healthcare in our region.”

First Bank and Trust Company’s commitment to education is a cornerstone of its broader community giving initiative. The company actively supports programs that promote learning at all levels, from youth initiatives to financial literacy to professional development, First Bank and Trust Company recognizes education as a key driver of economic opportunity and community well-being.

“Partnerships like this are truly transformational for our team members and the communities we serve,” said Shirley Davis Carter, CFRE, Executive Director & Vice President of Philanthropy at Augusta Health. This endowment helps remove barriers to education while creating meaningful opportunities for our team members to grow professionally and continue delivering exceptional care. We’re deeply grateful to First Bank and Trust Company for investing in the people who make our mission possible every day.”

About Augusta Health Foundation

Augusta Health Foundation serves as the charitable arm of Augusta Health. The Foundation secures philanthropic support to strengthen the health system’s ability to care for all people in our communities. Generous contributions to Augusta Health Foundation fund new programs and services, state-of-the-art equipment, education, vital outreach and more. For more information, visit ahfoundation.augustahealth.com or contact ahfoundation@augustahealth.com.

About First Bank and Trust Company

First Bank and Trust Company, one of the top community banks in the United States, is a diversified financial services firm with office locations throughout Southwest Virginia, the state’s Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valleys, Northeast Tennessee, and North Carolina. The bank offers financial solutions through checking products for personal and business accounts, savings, money markets, and time deposit accounts. Lending services are provided through mortgage, agricultural, and commercial divisions. Comprehensive wealth management solutions are also available through trust and brokerage services.

The First Bank and Trust Endowment for Augusta Health Scholars will serve as a lasting resource, ensuring that Augusta Health team members have access to the educational opportunities needed to meet the evolving demands of healthcare.

Together, Augusta Health and First Bank and Trust Company are proud to champion initiatives that empower individuals, strengthen the workforce, and create healthier communities for generations to come.

Media Contacts:
Kristen Printy, Public Relations Manager, kprinty@augustahealth.com             
Kaitlyn Widner, VP/Marketing Officer, kpruitt@firstbank.com

SOURCE: First Bank and Trust Company