News & Events

2025 Mid-Carolina Touchstone Energy Scholarship Winners

Seven high school graduates from South Carolina’s Midlands region are preparing for college with more than just excitement: They’re heading off with a meaningful financial boost.

Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative has awarded each student a $4,000 Touchstone Energy Scholarship, designed to support local youth in their pursuit of higher education. The recipients represent a range of academic interests and will be attending institutions both in-state and across the country.

This year’s scholarship recipients are Caroline Hoffman of Brookland-Cayce High School, who will attend the University of South Carolina; Rylan Cullum, a homeschooled student, who will attend Maryville College; Addison Cook of Lexington High School, who will attend Lander University; John Gardner IV of River Bluff High School, who will attend the University of South Carolina Honors College; William Wang of Dutch Fork High School, who will attend Stanford University; Maple Erickson of Chapin High School, who will attend Brigham Young University; and Owen Roddy of Spring Hill High School, who will attend the College of Charleston Honors College.

“These are exceptional young people,” said Bob Paulling, Mid-Carolina Electric President and CEO. “We’re proud to support them as they take this next step in their educational journey. We know they will represent our community well.”

Mid-Carolina Electric’s annual scholarship recognizes students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership and a commitment to community service. Applications for the cooperative’s 2026 schools will open in January.