Austin Vaughan Memorial Scholarship

Austin Fred Vaughan….there were so many qualities about this young man and the way he decided his future.  Austin started in his junior year at Antelope Union High School researching careers and calling the schools he was interested in attending.  When he narrowed down his choice, nothing held him back.  Austin spoke to the instructor at Chandler-Gilbert Electrical Utility Technology (EUT) Program and was given the outline of what he needed to do to get a spot in the course.  Austin did not waste time, he met with Josie Uriarte, Center Assistant of the Wellton Learning Center, and with her help he completed the requirements needed.  Because of his determination, Austin landed a spot at the Chandler-Gilbert EUT Program for August of 2013.

At the same time Austin was completing the courses for the EUT Program, he had become interested in the Volunteer Fire Department in Tacna, Arizona.  There was an instant love and desire born in him to help his community, he took this very seriously and did not miss his meetings or training sessions.  On the night of Austin’s high school graduation in May of 2012, Joe Rivera, Chief of the Tacna Fire Department and Gary Shaw, Assistant Chief,  presented him with his fireman badge.  Austin was so proud and a part of him matured that night.  He had worked hard and his reward now was taking care of his community and being able to stand with  his “band of brothers”.

We miss him so much.

Robert, Marjorie, Shepard, Prestin and Aja Vaughan

Austin's family established this scholarship in honor of their son to help students are not Pell Eligible, have attended Yuma County Public Schools, and are pursuing a Fire Science or Electrical Technicial degree or certificate. 

S.E.E.4Vets Military Legacy Endowed Scholarship

The S.E.E.4Vets Military Legacy Endowed Scholarship was made possible in 2016, thanks to the generosity of S.E.E.4Vets.  Their mission is to accelerate the support of men and women who have served our nation in uniform as productive members of the civilian community, including the pursuit of academic or certification goals, and greater opportunity to succeed and advance in the workplace.” 

For more information:  http://see4vets.org/

Jacque Dampier Memorial Scholarship for Culinary Students

Jacque retired from the US Army after serving his country for 27 years. After his retirement, he spent many years as a computer analyst. He eventually found that he loved to bake and went to school in San Diego, earning a certificate in Baking and Pastry. His bread making skills were amazing. When a position came available at Arizona Western College for a baking instructor, he jumped at it. Eventually he also taught basic culinary skills. His students respected him and considered him a friend. When he became too ill to teach, it devastated him. He loved what he did. He passed away on July 8, 2014 from cancer. He would be thrilled to know that scholarships in his name are being awarded to students interested in pursuing a career in something so close to his heart.