TSTC Foundation receives significant financial gift from Vistra

(WACO, Texas) – The TSTC Foundation has received $100,000 from Vistra, an Irving-based company that specializes in retail electricity and power generation, to establish a scholarship fund for Texas State Technical College students in select programs.

“Our hope is that these scholarships are the support TSTC students need to cross the finish line – not just the dollars for tuition, but the knowledge that we, as a company, believe in their success,” said Curt Morgan, president and chief executive officer of Vistra. “The events of the past year have only cemented my belief that equity in education, at every level, is the strong foundation necessary to develop today’s students into tomorrow’s professionals. In partnership with TSTC, Vistra is proud to invest in and elevate a diverse next generation of leaders.”

The contribution will be divided into $1,000 awards for students in TSTC’s Cybersecurity, Electrical Power and Controls, Instrumentation Technology, Industrial Systems, and Welding Technology programs statewide. The programs directly pertain to the company’s work.

“Scholarships are helpful to students when monetary emergencies come up that require them to need money beyond student loans and grants that threaten to keep them from being able to attend classes,” said Robert Lovelace, TSTC’s statewide lead of the Instrumentation Technology program.

Dan Bateman, TSTC’s statewide lead of the Electrical Power and Controls program, said the Vistra scholarship will add to the list of financial opportunities that students can turn to for assistance.

“It makes them feel like they are being awarded for their hard work,” he said.

The donation to The TSTC Foundation is part of a $10 million commitment from Vistra to support organizations that grow minority-owned small businesses, enhance economic development and provide educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

Vistra serves more than 5 million commercial, industrial and residential customers with electricity and natural gas. It  is the largest competitive power generator in the United States.

“We are deeply grateful to Vistra and the members of its organization for their generosity,” said Gail Lawrence, TSTC’s executive vice chancellor. “This gift from Vistra will make a significant impact on helping TSTC students overcome financial obstacles to pursue their studies.”

To learn more about The TSTC Foundation,  go to tstc.edu/tstcfoundation/.