Scholarships

The Athens Area Community Foundation manages scholarship opportunities on behalf of generous donors who are committed to investing in the next generation of students. You may review the scholarship opportunity below and note the application timeline and eligibility requirements. Application links will be available during open application periods. When applications are not being accepted, additional information about the scholarship will be provided. For questions, please email info@athensareacf.org.

J. Kenneth and Arlene D. Whitlow Family Foundation Scholarship

The J. Kenneth and Arlene D. Whitlow Family Foundation Scholarship Fund was established in honor of James Kenneth Whitlow, founder of Whitlow Electric in Elberton, Georgia, and his wife, Arlene D. Whitlow.

Founded in 1963, Whitlow Electric grew from a 1,000-square-foot garage serving the local granite industry into a leading supplier of substation steel, pole-line hardware, and transmission structures for electric utility companies throughout the United States and internationally. Today, the company operates from an 11-acre facility in Elberton with nearly 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space and approximately 100 employees.

Arlene Whitlow’s commitment to education was shaped by her experiences growing up in Elberton. After Elberton High School was destroyed by fire in 1955, students attended classes in churches and local businesses for several years. This experience instilled in her a deep appreciation for educational opportunities and lifelong learning.

Created in 2025, this scholarship assists students with college expenses while encouraging future generations to remain engaged in outdoor recreation, healthy lifestyles, and community stewardship.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a graduating high school senior or GED graduate
• Reside in Elbert, Hart, Franklin, Wilkes, or Lincoln County, Georgia
• Plan to attend an accredited U.S. college or university as a full-time student
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8
• Demonstrate financial need

Award Information

The 2026 scholarship cycle will award one scholarship of up to $30,000, distributed in annual payments of up to $7,500 per year for four years. Award funds are designed to cover remaining eligible costs after all other scholarships, grants, and financial aid have been applied.

The scholarship is intended to help cover eligible educational expenses, including:

• Tuition
• Required fees
• Books
• Academic supplies

Scholarship Timeline

Application Opens: TBD