Twenty-nine students in Central and Southern California will receive a total of $314,000 from the SoCalGas Scholarship Program to pursue higher education at four-year universities, community colleges and trade schools, the utility announced Wednesday.
Students attending four-year universities will receive a $5,000 scholarship that can be renewed each year, up to $20,000. Recipients attending community colleges and trade schools will receive $1,000 each toward eligible programs.
The company is also expected to renew the scholarships of 28 participants from 2022 and 2023, who are attending four-year universities.
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"For over 20 years, SoCalGas has been dedicated to empowering students by providing scholarships that enhance their access to higher education, support their journey to becoming future professionals, and contribute to a diverse pipeline of talent," Andy Carrasco, vice president of communications, local government and community affairs for SoCalGas, said in a statement. "Since the program's inception in 2001, SoCalGas has awarded over $3.9 million in scholarships to 2,355 students."
The program evaluates students based on their academic achievements, community involvement, financial need and personal statements related to sustainable energy in the state.
In partnership with Scholarship America, the program is designed to provide direct financial assistance to students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, math, finance, accounting, business administration, plumbing, electrical, HVAC or welding across the Central and Southern California region.
Jacqueline Rivas, a graduate from Garfield High School in East LA and a scholarship recipient, called it an honor to be selected for the program. Rivas will be attending UCLA in the fall to study environmental science and biology.
"Words cannot express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for this opportunity, so I will treasure it with all my heart and will work hard to accomplish my goals for the future with the foundation that SoCalGas set for me," Rivas said in a statement.
Last month, the utility company hosted an online recognition event for the 2024 scholarship recipients. Those who participated also learned about the company and about available internships and entry level positions.
Students had the opportunity to network with professionals working in their planned field of study.
Under its ASPIRE 2045 Sustainability Strategy, SoCalGas plans to invest $50 million over five years into communities the company serves -- in part by supporting higher education and offering career development opportunities for students.
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