At LPEA, we firmly believe in the power of community. By investing in the education of our local youth, we are not only supporting their personal ambitions but also reinforcing the foundation of our entire region. This year, we are proud to announce that we have awarded $93,000 in scholarships to seven remarkable high school seniors, each of whom embodies the potential and promise of their generation.

Spotlight on Our Scholars

Enzo Guglielmo from Durango High School received one of the prestigious LPEA Scholarships, which provides up to $28,000 for studies in electrical engineering at an accredited university. Enzo shares his gratitude and vision: “This scholarship will support me in my journey to higher education, helping me choose my college based on quality, not just the price tag.” 

Bryce Toppin, also from Durango High School, was awarded an LPEA Scholarship to pursue Environmental Science and Technology at Colorado Mesa University. Bryce’s enthusiasm is palpable as he explains, “I am excited to learn how to solve problems that our communities face, with hands-on experience that will pave the way for a sustainable future.” 

Rachel Sanburg from Ignacio High School is this year’s John Voelker Memorial Scholarship recipient. She will study Biology and Agribusiness at Eastern Wyoming College. She reflects on the impact of this award: “The John Voelker Memorial Scholarship opens a huge door of opportunity for my college career.” 

Bryan Hastey of Durango High School also received the John Voelker Memorial Scholarship to help fund his studies in Mechanical Engineering. Bryan expresses his appreciation: “Receiving this scholarship allows me to focus more on my studies and less on financial pressures. It's a major step toward achieving my goals.” 

Breaking New Ground

Katie Killinen from Bayfield High School has made history as the first female recipient of the LPEA Lineworker Scholarship, valued at $12,000. Katie is set to study at Colorado Mesa University’s lineworker school. In addition, she was also awarded the Gary Hubbs Memorial Scholarship, honoring a dedicated 25-year veteran lineman of LPEA. Katie’s achievements highlight her pioneering spirit and dedication, paving the way for more women to enter this vital field. “Being selected for this scholarship means the world to me. I am encouraged to strive for my goal of becoming an electric lineworker.” 

Additional Scholarship Recipients

The Tri-State G&T Scholarship was awarded to Oren Moore IV from Durango High School and Jack Hittle from Pagosa High School, both pursuing degrees in Mechanical Engineering. Oren notes, “Thank you for selecting me for the $500 Tri-State Scholarship Award. I am sure you had many qualified candidates to select from, and I am very grateful that I was one of the applicants chosen.” Jack adds, “This scholarship will help me pay for my college education and pursue my dream of becoming an engineer.”

A Continuing Opportunity

LPEA is still accepting applications for one more Lineworker Scholarship. This award is designed to prepare students for a career in electrical linework, a critical role within our community. By providing this scholarship, LPEA aims to ensure a steady stream of qualified professionals ready to support our infrastructure and service needs.

For more details on our scholarships and to find out how you can apply for the remaining Lineworker Scholarship, visit our scholarship page.

Why These Scholarships Are Crucial

Funded by LPEA’s Unclaimed Capital Credit funds, these scholarships are a testament to our cooperative’s principle of “concern for the community.” They not only assist our service area’s youth in achieving their educational goals but also play a crucial role in our region's economic and social vitality.