Every community depends on the next generation being prepared to lead, work, serve and succeed. That responsibility cannot rest solely on teachers and schools. It takes support from across the community.
At Southeast Gas, that belief has shaped how we approach our role in Southeast Alabama for more than 70 years. While our primary responsibility is providing safe and reliable natural gas service, we have always believed our commitment should extend far beyond the pipeline. Supporting the schools and students who represent the future of our communities is part of that responsibility.
Our vision is to serve, and one of the ways we live that out is our Give Back to Schools initiative. This program has returned more than $2 million directly to local public-school systems since its creation in 2010. This year alone, we are distributing over $140,000 across 20 school systems throughout our service area. These are practical, flexible dollars that school leaders can use where they are needed most, whether that means supporting teachers, improving facilities or strengthening classroom instruction.
What makes the program unique is its direct connection to the communities we serve. Funding is tied to natural gas usage within each school system, creating a simple cycle where local investment helps support local classrooms. Our commitment to education goes beyond financial contributions.
Our commitment to education extends well beyond financial support. Southeast Gas employees live in these communities, raise families here, attend local churches and invest their time in local schools. Many volunteer by reading to students, mentoring young people, supporting school programs and helping with community events. I have always believed service is personal. It is about showing up, building relationships and investing in people.
That same spirit inspired our Community Service Scholarship program. Each year, we recognize high school seniors who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to serving others. These students are not only preparing for successful futures themselves, but they are also already making meaningful contributions to the communities around them.
This year, we honored 25 outstanding students at our annual scholarship luncheon in Troy. More than 100 students applied, and the selection process was highly competitive. These young people excel academically, but what stood out most was their heart for service. They volunteered with nonprofits, organized community projects, supported important causes and set an example for their peers.
With the support of our Board of Directors, we increased the scholarship amount to $2,000 this year to help ease some of the financial burden students and families face. Since launching the program in 2015, Southeast Gas has awarded more than $375,000 in scholarships to 244 students across our region.
These students represent the values we strive to uphold at Southeast Gas: service, hard work, integrity and commitment to others. They remind us that leadership is not defined solely by personal success, but by how we impact the people around us.
At Southeast Gas, we believe strongly in servant leadership. We try to live that out every day, from our leadership team to employees working in communities across our service area. Investing in education is one of the most important ways we can strengthen the future of Southeast Alabama.
As the school year wraps up and another class of seniors graduates, our commitment will remain strong. Whether through direct support for schools, employee volunteerism, or programs that recognize student achievement and service, Southeast Gas will continue investing in the next generation. There is no greater investment we can make than in the young people who will shape the future of our communities. Congratulations to the class of 2026!
