Grady EMC is currently accepting applications for the prestigious Walter Harrison Scholarship, a program sponsored by Georgia’s electric membership corporations (EMCs).

The $1,000 scholarship can be applied to academic expenses at any accredited two- or four-year university, college or vocational-technical institute in Georgia.

“What makes electric cooperatives different from other utilities is their mission to give back to the communities they serve,” said Donnie Prince with Grady EMC. “We’re pleased to continue the tradition of supporting communities with programs and services that touch our members’ lives in different ways.”

Nine Walter Harrison Scholarships will be awarded in 2009 to students with exemplary academic records. Grade point average, SAT scores, academic standing, scholastic honors and financial need are considered when determining eligibility. A scholarship committee comprised of directors and managers of Georgia EMCs seek to award scholarships to remarkable students who may otherwise not be able to afford college.

Students applying for the scholarship must be accepted or enrolled in an accredited undergraduate degree program, complete a two-page application and write a two-page autobiographical sketch with references to future plans. The scholarship is available to any college level student, young or old.

Since 1985, Georgia’s electric cooperatives have awarded more than $116,000 to students via the Walter Harrison Scholarship program.

Scholarship applications are available at the guidance counselors’ office at area high schools. Completed applications are due by Wednesday, Feb. 4, and should be returned to Grady EMC, P.O. Box 270, Cairo, GA. Interested persons may contact Grady EMC with any questions by calling (229) 377-4182 or visiting www.gradyemc.com online.

Grady EMC, based in Cairo, is a member-owned cooperative providing electricity and related services to 15,000 members in three Georgia counties.