The rising cost of college can be daunting for many families, but the PG&E Corporation Foundation is stepping in to make a difference. In 2024, the Foundation awarded $350,000 in scholarships to 60 students from Northern and Central California.
These scholarships, aimed at students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), offer financial relief and pave the way for future innovators.
Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
The Better Together STEM Scholarships are part of PG&E’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and supporting students who are likely to lead tomorrow’s technological advancements.
This year, the scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000 per student, allowing recipients to focus on their studies rather than financial burdens.
- $10,000 scholarships were awarded to 20 students.
- $5,000 scholarships went to another 20 students.
For students like Alexis Schoel from Yuba City, this scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s an opportunity to achieve dreams that once seemed out of reach. Alexis, who plans to study mechanical engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, comes from a small school with fewer than 50 students.
She hopes to be the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, and the scholarship brings her one step closer to that goal.
Supporting Diverse Educational Paths
The scholarship recipients are pursuing a range of STEM disciplines, from mechanical engineering to environmental studies. Samuel Badilla of Reedley, for example, will major in environmental studies at the University of Southern California.
The support from PG&E allows students like Samuel to believe in their ability to make a positive impact on the world, particularly in areas like environmental sustainability.
Below is a breakdown of the scholarship distribution:
Scholarship Amount |
Number of Recipients |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | 20 |
| $5,000 | 20 |
| $2,500 | 20 |
A Tradition of Support
Since its inception in 2012, the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has awarded nearly $7.5 million to students, all funded by PG&E shareholders.
This program, along with PG&E’s employee resource groups and engineering networking groups, reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to education and community support.
Carla Peterman, PG&E Corporation’s Executive Vice President and Chair of the Board for the PG&E Corporation Foundation, emphasized the importance of these scholarships:
“These scholars are our future doers and thinkers, and we can’t wait to see all that they will accomplish. It’s a tradition we are proud to continue.”
PG&E’s scholarships are not just about easing financial burdens—they are about investing in the future. With a strong focus on STEM education, these awards are helping to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Expanding Opportunities
This year’s scholarships also highlight an expanded opportunity for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States.
Recognizing the growing trend of California students seeking education at HBCUs, the PG&E Foundation added these institutions to its list of eligible schools two years ago, further broadening the reach and impact of the scholarship program.
For many recipients, these scholarships are a lifeline, offering not just financial support but also the confidence to pursue their academic and professional goals. With PG&E’s backing, these students are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and the world at large.
Sources: THX News & Pacific Gas and Electric Company.
