George Ball Scholarship
​The George Ball Scholarship, created in honor of charter member George Ball, which awards up to $1,000 to any SCESTA member or dependent of a SCESTA member who is pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is intended to support students as they continue their academic and professional journey.​
We are now accepting submissions for the
2026 George Ball Scholarship
Rules and Eligibility Requirements
The following criteria will be used as minimum eligibility requirements and judging criteria for the applicants of the SCESTA George Ball Scholarship.
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The scholarship award, up to $1,000, will be presented to qualified students. Recipients will receive a certificate, and funds will be paid directly to their school’s registrar.
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The student must be at least 15 years of age. He or she must be enrolled in an accredited high school as a senior matriculating the following year; or must be enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, or vocational program located in South Carolina.
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Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college, university, or vocational program and actively registered in coursework no later than the Winter 2027 semester.
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Eligible students must be a dependent of a SCESTA member who is a full-time, active employee of a burglar and fire alarm company.
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Each student must submit a complete application submitted on or before June 15, 2026. Failure to follow instructions can result in disqualification.
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All materials (including essays) become property of the SCESTA. By submitting an application and essay, the student grants permission to publish all essays. Applicants also agree that if they win, they will cooperate in publicity efforts, including (but not limited to) participating in interviews with state communications, local, trade press, and submitting photos for inclusion in state chapter publications, press materials and online.
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Students must submit the following:
1. Completed application
2. Brief Essay (typed)
3. Proof of enrollment in high school (transcript or letter acceptable) or proof of acceptance/enrollment in a college or university (letter acceptable)
All decisions are final.
Click here to apply online. Due June 15, 2026.
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History
The George Ball Scholarship is named in honor of Mr. George Ball, a charter member of the South Carolina Alarm Association. Mr. Ball will forever be recognized for his dedication and service to the industry and association.
2025 George Ball Scholarship Recipients
Jackson Sikes
​Jackson Sikes is senior at Powdersville High School. As a dedicated student, he is a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club, and a proud member of the Powdersville varsity baseball team. Jackson will attend Clemson University in the fall, continuing his family’s tradition of Tiger pride. Outside of school, Jackson enjoys spending time with friends and cheering on his favorite sports teams. Jackson’s father works with Priority One Security.
Layne Turner
Layne Turner is currently attending Dutch Fork High School and has committed to playing lacrosse at Randolph College in next year. He plans to pursue a degree in Engineering Physics and has aspirations of becoming an Aerospace Engineer focusing on gas turbine engines. Currently he is a 4.0 student, celebrating 10 years of playing lacrosse and a member of the National Honor Society at Dutch Fork. Layne’s father is an employee at AMAROK.
2025 Jim DeWitt Memorial Scholarship
Drue Gilreath
Drue Gilreath, a native of Charleston, South Carolina, will be attending Clemson University in the fall to pursue a degree in Biochemistry. Inspired by a strong role model, Drue's father, the Director of Public Safety on Folly Beach, Drue has learned the importance of hard work, leadership, and serving others with integrity. This foundation has guided Drue’s academic and personal aspirations. Grateful to be selected as a scholarship recipient, Drue looks forward to the opportunities ahead in science and higher education.