It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Rural Heritage Museum in Mars Hill, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Mars Hill, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind,”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home,”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved;”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always come out once a while to make sure everything is okay.”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The people they have sent have been pretty good. They make it positive by taking care of my daily needs.”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and scheduling. The caregiver is amazing; the issue is with the office staff having high turnover and not being reliable. The caregiver has helped the most by giving my dad transportation to go to places like the grocery store, and she offers companionship.”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind, compassionate, and truly goes above and beyond to make sure her clients feel comfortable, respected, and well cared for. Her professionalism, patience, and genuine concern for others really stand out. Knowing someone like Lindsay is there gives families real peace of mind.”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the time, but we just have one now, and that's good. The days that the caregiver comes are good for us.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I have questions or concerns. I like having one caregiver. I don't know what they could improve on.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am out and about, and I don't have to be with the client.”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She went above and beyond to help us.”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are. Orientation was quick and painless which is always a PLUS in my book! 10/10 recommend if you are looking for that 1st step into the healthcare field without all the extra certifications and such!”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set up a plan of care, and the plan has been executed very nicely.”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home, whom I liked very much, and they took her away. Since then, I have had a bunch of different ones come in, but I need one like that caregiver I liked. They do things for me that I can't do for myself anymore.”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved; I don't know for sure. Explain to them that you don't need a cell phone at work. I appreciate them letting me stay in touch with them or them staying in touch with me.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help with anything she needs, depending on the day.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work with and they are good. They have been great with dealing with her.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They have helped me the most with light housekeeping.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It gives me time to go to the grocery store.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't have any problems getting things done when the caregivers show up.”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa and Autumn have given extra effort and care to assist with managing my client's needs. I don't know how I would have made it without them.”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They take the time to assess the needs of caregivers and care recipients alike and establish a detailed person-centered plan of care that addresses the care needs and wellbeing of the care recipient. This approach builds rapport and confidence with the caregiver and emphasizes respite for the caregiver while meeting the care recipients’ needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and more. Belinda has gone above the call of duty.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the nurse, is very encouraging. Their presence is helpful because I can't be there.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Mars Hill Recreation Park in Mars Hill, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Star Diner or visit Vance Birthplace, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Mars Hill, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Mars Hill, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Mars Hill, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The first full weekend of November offers several opportunities to connect with local artists, support community organizations and spend time outdoors across Western North Carolina.In Weaverville, artists will open their studios to visitors for the fall Art Safari, while downtown Mars Hill and Asheville will host First Friday gatherings. With Veterans Day approaching, a free information fair at Tanger Outlets Asheville will connect veterans and military families with organizations ...
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The first full weekend of November offers several opportunities to connect with local artists, support community organizations and spend time outdoors across Western North Carolina.
In Weaverville, artists will open their studios to visitors for the fall Art Safari, while downtown Mars Hill and Asheville will host First Friday gatherings. With Veterans Day approaching, a free information fair at Tanger Outlets Asheville will connect veterans and military families with organizations offering employment assistance, wellness programs and other resources.
The weekend also includes concerts, a guided bicycle ride along Asheville’s greenways and an evening of stargazing at UNC Asheville.
Here’s a look at some of the events happening across the region this weekend.
Downtown Mars Hill, Mars HillFriday, 5-8 p.m. | Free admission
Mars Hill First Fridays continues with an evening of live music, dance, art, food and shopping in the downtown district. November’s gathering includes performances by the Bailey Mountain Cloggers and BMC Juniors, along with music and activities connected to local businesses.
Tanger Outlets Asheville, AshevilleSaturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Free admission
Tanger Outlets Asheville and the Western North Carolina Veterans Collaboration will host a free information fair for veterans, active-duty service members and their families. More than 20 organizations will provide information about employment opportunities, mentorship, health and wellness programs, and community support services.
Participating organizations include NCWorks, Veteran Services of the Carolinas and other groups serving military families throughout the region.
Participating artist studios, Weaverville and surrounding North Buncombe communitiesSaturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Free admission
The Weaverville Art Safari invites visitors into artists’ studios for a free, self-guided tour. The event includes artists working in ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber, painting, photography and other mediums, with opportunities to see their workspaces and learn about their creative processes.
Smoky Mountain Event Center, Waynesville Saturday, 8 a.m. | Free Admission
The Saturday flea market offers an opportunity to browse secondhand merchandise, collectibles and items from participating vendors.
The Orange Peel, AshevilleFriday, 8 p.m. | Ticketed
Rumours ATL performs music from Fleetwood Mac’s catalog, including songs associated with the band’s best-known albums. The tribute group recreates the vocal harmonies and arrangements of Fleetwood Mac’s classic rock recordings.
The Orange Peel, AshevilleSaturday, 8 p.m. | Ticketed
The Record Company performs Saturday at The Orange Peel. The Grammy-nominated rock trio draws from blues, roots rock and American rock traditions, incorporating guitar, harmonica and driving rhythms into its music.
The Grey Eagle, AshevilleSaturday, 8 p.m. | Ticketed
North Carolina folk duo Chatham Rabbits performs with Murphy Campbell at The Grey Eagle. The husband-and-wife duo of Sarah and Austin McCombie blends traditional string-band influences, vocal harmonies and original songwriting rooted in Southern folk music.
The Radical, AshevilleSaturday, 9-11 a.m. | Registration required
The Morning Greenway Explorer Ride takes participants on a guided electric bicycle tour along Asheville’s greenway system. Beginning at The Radical in the River Arts District, the route follows paved paths near the French Broad River, passing New Belgium Brewing and continuing toward Carrier Park and the Hominy Creek Greenway.
The ride offers an opportunity to explore portions of the city’s greenways while learning more about the connected trails.
Lookout Observatory at UNC Asheville, AshevilleFriday evening | Free; advance registration required
UNC Asheville’s Lookout Observatory will host a public stargazing session in partnership with the Astronomy Club of Asheville. Participants can use observatory telescopes to view celestial objects and learn more about astronomy.
Registration is required because of limited capacity. The event is weather-dependent, with Saturday designated as a possible backup date. Attendees should check for weather updates and registration instructions before visiting.
Participating galleries and studios in the Downtown Art District, AshevilleFriday, 5-8 p.m. | Free admission
Asheville’s Downtown Art District First Friday brings visitors into galleries and creative businesses for an evening of exhibitions, artist demonstrations and other activities.
Participating locations offer opportunities to meet artists, explore new work and collect stamps on a district passport card. Visitors who collect five stamps can enter a drawing for prizes from local businesses.
Event details are subject to change. Check official event listings for updated schedules and information.
Emily Jenkins had spent much of the week convincing herself that the email probably wasn’t coming.The East Tennessee State University student had just finished a difficult swim workout with the university’s triathlon team and was cooking dinner for her younger sister when she checked her inbox.Then she stopped.“I just stared at it in disbelief,” Jenkins said. “I was very shocked.”Jenkins had been named a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s most prestigi...
Emily Jenkins had spent much of the week convincing herself that the email probably wasn’t coming.
The East Tennessee State University student had just finished a difficult swim workout with the university’s triathlon team and was cooking dinner for her younger sister when she checked her inbox.
Then she stopped.
“I just stared at it in disbelief,” Jenkins said. “I was very shocked.”
Jenkins had been named a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s most prestigious academic honors.
Her sister started jumping up and down. Her mother cried when Jenkins called and told her the news. Later, Jenkins, her sister and her best friend marked the occasion simply: with a piece of cake.
And Jenkins is not going to the Rhodes finalist interview alone.
ETSU alumna Kyah Powers, now at Georgetown Law, has also been named a finalist, earning the distinction for the second consecutive year and giving the university two Rhodes finalists in the same cycle.
Together, their selections mark ETSU’s fourth consecutive year producing a Rhodes finalist and bring the university to five finalist selections since 2023: Shivam Patel in 2023, Trent White in 2024, Powers in 2025 and both Powers and Jenkins in 2026.
Each year, 32 students from the United States are selected as Rhodes Scholars to pursue fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
For a regional public university, ETSU’s sustained presence among the finalists reflects something larger than a single application cycle.
“To have two Rhodes finalists in the same year is remarkable.” ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland said. “For four consecutive years, our students have demonstrated that they can compete with the best scholars in the nation. Emily and Kyah represent the talent, determination and spirit of service that define this university and this region.”
Seeing potential before she saw it herself
Jenkins is from Mars Hill, North Carolina, and was homeschooled before attending Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College through its Career and College Promise Program. She finished high school with an Associate in Science degree.
At ETSU, she has followed an unusually interdisciplinary path.
Jenkins is double majoring in biomedical health sciences and bluegrass, old-time and roots music studies with a minor in culture and health. She is also the first student from ETSU’s Quillen Honors Scholars program to become a Rhodes finalist.
She said Rhodes was not something she imagined for herself when she arrived at ETSU.
“There were professors and faculty who mentioned it to me during my freshman year, and at first, I didn’t believe them,” Jenkins said. “As I spent more time at ETSU, I had professors and mentors who continued to challenge me and encouraged me to pursue opportunities I wouldn’t have considered for myself.”
The scholarship particularly appealed to Jenkins because of its emphasis on academics, athletics and service, areas she has been able to pursue throughout her time at ETSU.
If selected, she hopes to explore questions at the intersection of health and human experience, including how culture, environment and experience shape health while deepening her understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying trauma and resilience. She ultimately plans to attend medical school.
“I wouldn’t be here without the mentors and professors who have encouraged me, challenged me and helped me get to this point,” Jenkins said. “They have believed in me even when I didn’t necessarily envision these opportunities for myself.”
A return to the Rhodes interview
For Powers, this recognition brings another opportunity to compete at the highest level.
A Dobyns-Bennett High School graduate, Powers graduated from ETSU in May 2026, having double majored in political science and philosophy with a minor in environmental studies. She was a member of both ETSU’s Roan Scholars Leadership Program and Undergraduate Research Honors Program.
When she was first named a Rhodes finalist in 2025, Powers said the achievement was not something she could have imagined.
“I don’t come from a background where this is something I would have expected for myself,” she said at the time.
Powers is currently in her first year at Georgetown Law, one of the nation's most prestigious law schools. Having been so close last year to reaching her dream of studying at Oxford University, she figured she had nothing to lose by applying again.
Powers said being selected as a finalist for a second consecutive year comes with “a great deal of gratitude and hope.”
“I have learned so much in the past year about life, my aspirations and my guiding principles,” Powers said. “It means that I have a chance to demonstrate all the growth afforded to me by hard work and my community.
“Being named a finalist for a second time means that there are people who heard my story, and even though it wasn’t a story of a narrow road to success, they had faith in me,” she added.
Her second selection adds another chapter to a remarkable run for ETSU students.
‘The talent has always been here’
Dr. Carson Medley, director of the Office of Prestigious Awards, sees that run as evidence of something deeper than successful applications.
The Rhodes process places significant weight on recommendations from people who have closely observed candidates’ academic, leadership and personal development. Medley said that makes ETSU’s success a reflection of the relationships students build with faculty and staff across the university.
“The staff and faculty who write her letters don’t just know the applicant in passing but really know the applicant,” Medley said of Jenkins. “They have mentored the student, seen her at all scaffolded phases in her development as a scholar and person.”
Medley said ETSU has demonstrated an ability to identify promising students, nurture their talents and encourage them to pursue opportunities they may not initially imagine for themselves.
"The talent has always been here," Medley said. "The trick is finding the right people willing to carve the marble and set the angel free."
ETSU established its Office of Prestigious Awards less than four years ago. Since then, the university has expanded the infrastructure surrounding nationally and globally competitive awards while continuing to rely on faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, interdisciplinary learning and leadership development.
“ETSU has shown for the last four years, not limited to Rhodes, that our staff, faculty, and administrators identify, nurture and develop talent — they recognize the angel within the marble and merely start carving to set the angel free,” said Medley.
That success extends beyond Rhodes, with ETSU students earning and competing for a growing number of nationally prestigious scholarships and fellowships.
“Emily and Kyah’s achievements illustrate what can happen when exceptional students are surrounded by faculty and staff who take the time to know them, challenge them and invest in their aspirations,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “This sustained success reflects the strength of our academic programs, the depth of mentorship at ETSU and a culture that encourages students to imagine possibilities beyond what they may have thought possible when they first arrived.”
For Jenkins, that culture has already changed how she sees what is possible.
“My experience with the faculty here at ETSU has absolutely been one of the greatest blessings of my college experience so far,” she said. “I hope they know how much of an impact they have had on me and how much I appreciate everything they have done.”
Discover more stories of ETSU students and faculty making an impact on campus, across Appalachia and beyond at etsu.edu/trailblazers.
ACC/NC CFB Scoreboard (Updated!), Complete TV/Streaming Schedule—(Week 10)—North Carolina Sports Network Week 10 college football games involving Atlantic Coast Conference and/or North Carolina-based NCAA teams (all divisions!) are listed below, along with their respective television and streaming options.Final scores — and some game times (often revised for weather-related reasons) — are updated as they become available, with this...
ACC/NC CFB Scoreboard (Updated!), Complete TV/Streaming Schedule
—(Week 10)—
North Carolina Sports Network
Week 10 college football games involving Atlantic Coast Conference and/or North Carolina-based NCAA teams (all divisions!) are listed below, along with their respective television and streaming options.
Final scores — and some game times (often revised for weather-related reasons) — are updated as they become available, with this week’s schedule including contests on Friday and Saturday.
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NC Football Bowl Subdivision (Seven Teams) (Games Saturday Unless Otherwise Indicated)
South Florida (6-2) at East Carolina (4-4), 7:30 p.m. (ESPN2) — Friday North Carolina (4-4) at UConn (4-4), noon (CBSSN) Duke (6-2) at NC State (4-4), 12:30 p.m. (The CW) Georgia State (4-4) at Appalachian State (5-3), 2:30 p.m. (ESPN+) Merrimack (4-5) at #14 Wake Forest (7-1), 3:30 p.m. (ACCN) Charlotte (1-7) at UAB (4-4), 3:30 p.m. (ESPN+)
Open Week: none
Atlantic Coast Conference (17 Teams)
Virginia Tech (6-2) at SMU (6-2), 7 p.m. (ESPN) — Friday North Carolina (4-4) at UConn (4-4), noon (CBSSN) Clemson (5-3) at Syracuse (4-4), noon (ESPN2) Florida State (3-5) at Boston College (4-4), noon (ACCN) Duke (6-2) at NC State (4-4), 12:30 p.m. (The CW) Merrimack (4-5) at #14 Wake Forest (7-1), 3:30 p.m. (ACCN) #1 Miami (8-0) at #4 Notre Dame (7-1), 7:30 p.m. (NBC) Louisville (5-3) at Georgia Tech (2-6), 7:30 p.m. (ACCN)
Open Week: Cal (3-6), Pitt (6-3), Stanford (4-5), Virginia (4-5)
NC Football Championship Subdivision (Seven Teams)
North Carolina A&T (4-5) at #14 Monmouth (7-2), noon (FloCollege) NC Central (4-5) at Norfolk State (4-5), noon (ESPN+) Stony Brook (5-4) at #19 Campbell (7-2), 1 p.m. (FloCollege) Stetson (1-8) at Davidson (3-6), 1 p.m. (ESPN+) Wofford (5-4) at Western Carolina (4-5), 1 p.m. (ESPN+) Lindenwood (4-4) at Gardner-Webb (3-6), 1:30 p.m. (ESPN+) Hampton (1-8) at Elon (4-5), 2 p.m. (FloCollege)
Open Week: none
NC Division Two (13 Teams)
Shorter (3-6) at Chowan (5-4), 1 p.m. (CCDN) Fayetteville State (6-3) at Winston-Salem State (2-7), 1:30 p.m. (CIAA) Barton (1-8) at Erskine (2-7), 1:30 p.m. (CCDN) Emory & Henry (3-6) at Wingate (5-4), 1:30 p.m. (FloCollege) Elizabeth City State (3-6) at Bluefield State (1-8), 2 p.m. (CIAA) Johnson C Smith (7-2) at Livingstone (3-6), 2 p.m. (CIAA) UNC Pembroke (7-2) at Ferrum (3-6), 2 p.m. (CCDN) Tusculum (4-5) at Lenoir-Rhyne (4-5), 2 p.m. (FloCollege) Catawba (4-5) at UVa Wise (2-7), 3 p.m. (FloCollege) Mars Hill (5-3) at Anderson (4-5), 4 p.m. (FloCollege)
Open Week: Shaw (4-6)
NC Division Three (Five Teams)
Methodist (1-7) at Brevard (6-2), 1 p.m. (FloCollege) Guilford (1-7) at Averett (2-6), 1 p.m. (FloCollege) North Carolina Wesleyan (4-4) at Greensboro (2-6), 2 p.m. (FloCollege)
Open Week: none
MARS HILL, N.C. - A three-goal second half for Mars Hill proved too difficult for the Bears to overcome as Lenoir-Rhyne fell 4-0 to the Lions on Wednesday night.Thanks to a Wingate victory over Newberry, Lenoir-Rhyne will qualify for the South Atlantic Conference Tournament as the No. 8 seed. The Bears and Bulldogs were both tied with eight points in the SAC and tied 1-1 in the regular season. The Bears earned a spot in the tournament due to their 2-0 victory over Anderson, a team Wingate tied 2...
MARS HILL, N.C. - A three-goal second half for Mars Hill proved too difficult for the Bears to overcome as Lenoir-Rhyne fell 4-0 to the Lions on Wednesday night.
Thanks to a Wingate victory over Newberry, Lenoir-Rhyne will qualify for the South Atlantic Conference Tournament as the No. 8 seed. The Bears and Bulldogs were both tied with eight points in the SAC and tied 1-1 in the regular season. The Bears earned a spot in the tournament due to their 2-0 victory over Anderson, a team Wingate tied 2-2.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP: Final: Mars Hill 4, Lenoir-Rhyne 0 Records: Mars Hill (8-6-3, 4-5-1 SAC), Lenoir-Rhyne (2-9-3, 2-6-2 SAC) Location: Mars Hill, N.C. | Meares Stadium
STORY OF THE MATCH:
STATS OF THE MATCH:
BEYOND THE BOXSCORE:
UP NEXT: Lenoir-Rhyne earned the No. 8 seed in the SAC Tournament and will travel to Emory & Henry on Saturday. The Wasps defeated Tusculum today to jump Catawba and win the first SAC Regular Season Title in program history. The Bears and Wasps played once this year, a 4-1 win for Emory & Henry in Hickory. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in Emory, Virginia.
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