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Educating engineers: Walton EMC scholarships contribute to a brighter future

Walton EMC Engineering Leadership Scholarships are contributing to a brighter future for some local students attending the University of Georgia (UGA).

“Thinking about tomorrow is everyday work here at Walton EMC. Along with ensuring a reliable electric grid and keeping rates reasonable, training the next generation of human power must be a priority,” said Walton EMC CEO Ron Marshall.

First awarded in 2017, the scholarships were officially endowed with a $1.3 million gift by Walton EMC in 2021. The donation was initiated by former CEO Ronnie Lee who retired from the co-op last year following 43 years of service. He is a 1970 UGA agricultural engineering graduate.

The gift funds up to five annual awards to outstanding engineering students who maintain permanent residency within Walton EMC’s service area. The renewable scholarships cover tuition, fees, books and other expenses.

“The Walton EMC scholarship has honestly changed my life,” said Ashleigh Sayles, who grew up along co-op lines in Bogart. She’s a senior majoring in mechanical engineering and Spanish with additional certification in electric mobility.

Duluth’s Clara You, a junior in mechanical engineering, says the scholarship will allow her to graduate from college debt-free. Senior Mason Autry, of Rutledge, is using the financial aid to earn dual majors in mechanical engineering and German.

Recipient Justin Wu of Duluth, a senior in mechanical engineering, plans to use his education to improve environmental sustainability. “As a low-income student, this scholarship empowers me to pursue my dream of contributing to a cleaner future,” he said.

Sixteen local students have received a Walton EMC engineering scholarship since its inception. They are pursuing careers in electrical, biochemical, biological, environmental and mechanical engineering.

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