Women returning to school to earn college degrees have until June 1 to apply for financial assistance from the 2021 Jenny Ballard Opportunity Scholarship program.
Sponsored by Women Involved in Rural Electrification (WIRE), a service organization associated with South Carolina’s electric cooperatives, the scholarship is a one-time award based on financial need and personal goals.
“It takes courage and vision to pursue a college degree as a working adult,” says Tricia Smith, local WIRE director. “This scholarship is a chance to support these brave women, many of whom have already made so many sacrifices for their family.”
The scholarship is named after Jenny Ballard, who founded WIRE 40 years ago. The Opportunity Scholarship program began funding education for women returning to college in 2004.
Applicants for the program must:
- Be a member of Little River Electric or another South Carolina electric cooperative.
- Have graduated from high school or earned a GED at least 10 years ago.
- Be accepted into an accredited S.C. college or university.
- Demonstrate financial need and clear academic goals.
Recipients will receive scholarships for the fall 2021 or spring 2022 semester, with funds paid to the college or university.
Visit our WIRE page to learn more about the scholarships, apply online, or download an application.