Twelve graduating seniors from SECO’s service territory have each been awarded a $3,000 scholarship. The applicants were evaluated based on scholastic achievements, school and community service activities, and financial need.

“As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, Concern for Community is one of the seven cooperative principles that is near and dear to all of us here at SECO. I am thankful that our Board of Trustees has approved the continuance of the scholarship program for 20 years. As a business leader, it is exciting to meet future leaders first-hand as they begin to achieve their goals for their future,” said Jim Duncan, CEO of SECO Energy.

Through the past 20 years, SECO has pledged more than $500,000 to 257 high school seniors who live in the communities the agency serves. The awardees for 2016 are:

  • Merari Flores Saldana of Ocala, West Port High School

  • Megan M. Elliott of Tavares, Tavares High School

  • Citlali Barragan-Hernandez of Summerfield, Belleview High School

  • James C. Cato of Summerfield, Lake Weir High School

  • Cayley L. Buckner of  Silver Springs, West Port High School

  • Melissa L. Moreno of Ocala, West Port High School

  • Shelby C. Smith of Webster, South Sumter High School

  • Ana J. Mata of Summerfield, Belleview High School

  • Elijah T. Hughes of Bushnell, South Sumter High School

  • Karla G. Carvajal of Wildwood, Wildwood Middle-High School

  • Raul A. Bayas of Ocala, Vanguard High School

  • Richanda M. Pierre of Ocala, West Port High School