EnerStar Electric Cooperative is pleased to announce that Aubrey Lawson from Paris is among the 15 winners of this year’s Thomas H. Moore Illinois Electric Cooperatives (IEC) Memorial Scholarship. Aubrey was selected from among 285 other students across the state. Every year, the $2,000 scholarships are awarded to 16 high school students who are members, employees, or directors of electric co-ops. A 17th scholarship is reserved for a student interested in lineworker’s school, and the recipient will be announced later. The Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives will recognize her success at their annual meeting in Springfield in August.

The Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives conducts the selection process. Candidates are evaluated based on their grade-point average, college entrance exam scores, work and volunteer experience, school and civic activities, and a short essay demonstrating their knowledge of electric cooperatives. 

Aubrey’s application particularly stood out to EnerStar employees as she demonstrated her commitment to community and volunteer activities. EnerStar’s values align with the Seven Cooperative Principles, with Number Seven being “Concern for Community.” Aubrey’s dedication to her community aligns with these values, and her contribution to making a positive impact is much appreciated.

It’s worth noting that Aubrey was among the two representatives from EnerStar who attended the 2023 Youth to Washington tour. During her visit, Aubrey gained experience with government in action and learned more about how not-for-profit electric cooperatives benefit the local communities they serve.