November 2, 2023
Pearl River Valley Electric and PineBelt Foundation representatives came to the Poplarville Campus of Pearl River Community College on Monday, October 30 for a check presentation and reception. They were joined by PRCC administration, faculty, and staff members along with several of the 94 PRCC students who received a Round Up Scholarship for the 2023–24 school year.
John Johnson lives in Columbia, attended East Marion High School, and is working towards a degree in electrical engineering. He currently serves as a River Navigator on the Poplarville Campus.
“My mom and dad have worked very hard and helped me prepare for college,” said Johnson. “The scholarship is a blessing and helps me attend PRCC. It also motivates me and helps drive me to succeed.”
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to champions like Pearl River Valley Electric for their scholarship support, enabling our students to pursue higher education and contribute to the growth of stronger communities,” said Dr. Adam Breerwood, President of Pearl River Community College. “We hope that this financial contribution will serve as a catalyst for these students to reach their dreams and aspirations.”
Since the Round Up for Education scholarship program began in November 2012, more than $1.5 million has been distributed from an account overseen by the PineBelt Foundation. Ten percent of each year’s funds are set aside in an endowed fund for future use. The remaining money is divided equally between the number of eligible applicants. Last year, there were 111 PRCC students awarded scholarships of $500 each.
“This year, we were able to increase our scholarship to $650 per student; something we were happy to do,” said Pearl River Valley Electric CEO/General Manager Matthew Ware. “As the program grows, it will benefit the students, our communities, and our members.”
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Article by Laura O’Neill. Photography by Rudy Melancon.
