#United States #PG&E #Oakland #Education Funding #STEM Scholarships

PG&E Foundation Awards Scholarships to 54 STEM Students

The PG&E Corporation Foundation has made a significant impact by distributing 54 scholarships to students throughout Northern and Central California, aiming to lighten the financial burden of college education. This year, over $300,000 in grants were awarded as part of their Better Together STEM Scholarship program, offering amounts of $10,000, $5,000, and $2,500 to assist students in their higher education pursuits.

This initiative specifically supports young minds studying in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, fostering an environment of creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. By enabling students to explore these essential disciplines, PG&E is contributing to the development of future problem solvers and innovators.

Among the recipients this year is Erin Virnig from Arroyo Grande, who has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship. As a student focusing on environmental stewardship at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, she expressed her enthusiasm for the support she’s received, stating, "Being supported by a company that leads with such ambition toward a clean energy and safer future across California is not only an immense gift, but an inspiration. As I enter my final year, I feel more driven than ever to put my vision into action."

Another remarkable recipient is Christopher Loupeda, a civil engineering student at UCLA, who received $5,000. Loupeda emphasized the importance of the scholarship, noting, "The PG&E scholarship is not only about monetary value; it’s a reminder that I have a whole coalition behind me, reassuring me that I can focus solely on finishing my education."

The selection criteria for these scholarships include academic achievements, active participation in school and community activities, and financial need. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial strain on families but also create a supportive network for students striving towards higher education goals.

Moreover, the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has awarded an impressive total of over $7.8 million since its inception in 2012. All funds are sourced from charitable contributions made by PG&E shareholders, emphasizing the company's commitment to giving back to communities rather than relying on customer contributions.

In tandem with the Better Together program, PG&E’s employee resource groups and engineering networking groups contribute additional funding opportunities to further support local students in their quest for higher education. Through employee fundraising initiatives and direct contributions, they have collectively raised over $6 million for scholarships since 1989, reaching out to thousands of students in their communities.

As Carla Peterman, the Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer at PG&E Corporation, aptly stated, "It is truly a privilege to recognize our 2025 PG&E Better Together STEM Scholars. For over a decade, The PG&E Corporation Foundation has made college more accessible for families by supporting aspiring students as they pursue their educational ambitions. Invested in the future of these young individuals, we are excited to be part of their journeys toward becoming impactful leaders."

Scholarship recipients are required to enroll as full-time undergraduate students during the academic year 2025-2026 and pursue their first undergraduate degree at either an accredited four-year university in California or any Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the U.S. This inclusion of HBCUs was established three years ago, responding to a growing trend of applicants being accepted into these esteemed institutions.

The diverse scholarship offerings from PG&E reflect a broader commitment to education and support for local communities, underscoring the essential role that corporations play in fostering talent and innovation in the next generation.

For more information about the PGE Corporation Foundation and its various initiatives, please visit PGE's official website.

Through programs like these, PG&E continues to nurture educational pursuits, ensuring that the dream of higher education remains a tangible goal for students across California.