VICKSBURG, Miss.— Each year, the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Alumni Association presents scholarships to local high-school graduates.
This year, nine students were recognized for their leadership, dedication and academic excellence. Through donations and fundraising events, a total amount of $9,000 was funded to the following scholarship recipients:
- Laura Bailey, a graduate of Warren Central High School, plans on attending Louisiana State University with a major interest in Biological Sciences, specifically medicine. She is the daughter of Susan and Steven Bailey.
- Marley Bufkin, a graduate of Porters Chapel Academy, plans on attending Mississippi State University with a major interest in Biological Sciences. She is the daughter of Mary and Mickey Bufkin.
- Ryan Davidson, a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, plans on attending the University of Mississippi with a major interest in Education. He is the son of Ashley and Jeff Davidson.
- Samantha Edwards, a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, plans on attending Mississippi State University with a major interest in Mechanical Engineering. She is the daughter of Lulu and Micael Edwards.
- Charles “Trent” Ellison, a graduate of River City Early College High School, plans on attending Mississippi State University with a major interest in Mechanical Engineering. He is the son of Kellie and Chuck Ellison.
- Joshua Kitchens, a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, plans on attending Mississippi State University with a major interest in Mechanical Engineering. He is the son of Teresa and Steve Kitchens.
- Kennedy Mullins, a graduate of River City Early College High School, plans on attending the University of Southern Mississippi with a major interest in either Psychiatry or Clinical Psychology. She is the daughter of Anne and Kenneth Mullins.
- Peyton Rainer, a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, plans on attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham – Honors College with a major interest in Neuroscience. She is the daughter of Amy and Andrew Rainer.
- Julia Tuminello, a graduate of St. Aloysius High School, plans on attending the University of Southern Mississippi with a major interest in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training. She is the daughter of Patricia Tolley.
The ERDC Alumni Association, composed of retirees and former employees, remains dedicated to advancing education and supporting promising individuals in their academic pursuits. Through initiatives like these scholarships, ERDC outreach continues to inspire and support the next generation of STEM leaders who will shape our nation's future.