Each year, Union Power offers high school seniors attending a North Carolina-accredited college or university the opportunity to apply for a $1,000 scholarship.
Guidelines
- All applicants must be a child of a Union Power Cooperative member or live in a home served by Union Power Cooperative.
- The applicant must be a high school senior in the current graduating class.
- Criteria for awarding the scholarship to an individual is based on 40% need; 30% scholastic achievement, and 30% extracurricular activities in school, civic, and community functions.
- Children of Union Power employees are not eligible to apply.
- If awarded, recipients are required to use the funds during their first year of college.
Judging
An independent committee, not affiliated with the Cooperative, will judge the applications and select the scholarship winners. After the selection process is complete, the winners will be notified by a letter in the mail, and an update to this page will be made.
Application
The application is currently closed and will reopen on December 1.
Final Application Deadline: March 1, 2027.
Emily Aldridge
Congratulations to our 2026 College Scholarship Recipients
Lily Carriker
As a graduate of Hickory Ridge High School, she plans to study poultry science at NC State University to become a large-animal veterinarian. She aims to advocate for sustainable agriculture and the communities involved in the food system.
Bridget Waldron
As a graduate of Cuthbertson High School, Bridget plans to double major in history and international studies at UNC Wilmington. Inspired by the power of museums to bring the past to life, she hopes to one day educate and inspire others through museum work in North Carolina.
Nolen Mullis
As a graduate from Piedmont High School, Nolen plans to attend NC State University to obtain a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and intends to complete the ROTC program. His goal is to be commissioned as an Air Force officer to work as an engineer.
Noah Carelli
As a graduate of Cuthbertson High School, Noah will attend UNC Chapel Hill this fall to study Business Economics. He chose this field because of his interest in corporate finance and the impact of sound financial decisions on businesses and communities.
Ryan Ladimir
From Porter Ridge High School, Ryan plans to study finance and sports management at Wingate University. Outside of academics, he is a dedicated leader who devotes his time to Common Heart, a local nonprofit food bank.
Sebastian Smith
From Cuthbertson High School, Sebastian will attend Wake Forest University to pursue a degree in engineering. His enthusiasm for the engineering field is unmatched, as he is eager to learn how things are built. He hopes to develop skills that allow him to create more efficient, impactful systems and contribute meaningfully to the world around him.
Brinkley Housand
As a Union Academy Charter School graduate, Brinkley will study Earth and climate science at Duke University. In high school, she served as student body president, gaining leadership skills and fostering a supportive school community.
Abigayle Price
As a graduate of Independence High School, she is pursuing a degree in elementary education at East Carolina University. She aspires to have her own classroom where students can learn their worth and positively impact their community.
Isai Varela
As a graduate from Forest Hills High School, Isai plans to pursue a degree in social work from Appalachian State University. He is dedicated to helping others navigate difficult situations. Serving as senior class president, he refined his leadership, communication, and organizational skills, preparing him for the future.
Noah McKinney
After graduating from Sun Valley High School, Noah will attend Brevard College to study business and continue his basketball career. As a varsity basketball captain, he showcased strong leadership while balancing academics, athletics, and a part-time job.
