Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation named three high school seniors to receive a $2,500 scholarship. 

Students completed applications that included their academic, community, and school involvement and submitted an essay about how they plan to use their degree to change their community.

AVECC received thirty-nine applications from across the cooperative’s service territory and chose six students as finalists to participate in an interview.

 The three 2022 AVECC Senior Scholarship recipients are Payton McCain, Julianna Arroyo, and Joshua Uptigrove. 

Payton McCain is a 2022 graduate of Alma High School. While at AHS, Payton’s school involvement included the Alma Competitive Cheer team, National Honor Society, Fashion Club, and Art Club. 

Payton plans on attending Arkansas Tech University, where she will pursue a bachelor’s degree in education.

Payton stated, “Now that I am moving on to the next chapter of my life, I have many goals. Most importantly, I want to inspire others and promote public service in a field of study that is meaningful to my values. I know that becoming a contributing member of my community and leader for others is how I want people to remember me.” 

Julianna Arroyo is a 2022 graduate of Charleston High School. While at CHS, Julianna’s school involvement included the Project Prevent Youth Coalition, Beta Club, Student Council, Volleyball, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Julianna plans on attending the University of Arkansas, where she will pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work and Spanish with a minor in international studies.

Julianna stated, “I want to help people from all over the world who are hoping to find a better life in the United States. As a social worker, I can strengthen my communities by providing education programs and empowering long-term economic independence.”

Joshua Uptigrove is a 2022 graduate of Scranton High School. While at SHS, Joshua’s school involvement included FFA, Beta Club, and Student Council.

Joshua plans on attending the University of Arkansas, where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education.

Joshua stated, “My wish is to mold the next generation of agriculturists and nurture their individual strengths while creating smart and informed citizens. By receiving my degree in agriculture education, I hope to support the growth of the agriculture industry, strengthen the next generation of agriculturists, and exert an influence in my community that will secure agriculture as the cornerstone of America for decades to come.”

AVECC congratulates all 2022 graduates and looks forward to watching the next generation change our communities.