South Georgia Technical College has awarded 20 students the Erica Scannavino Skilled Trades Scholarship, continuing a legacy of support for those pursuing careers in automotive technology, collision repair and high-performance engines. Since its establishment, the scholarship has benefited 68 students, aiding them with necessary tools and education costs.
The scholarship, created in memory of Erica Scannavino by her parents, Bud and Mary Scannavino, provides $500 to eligible students to cover tuition, fees or essential tools. To qualify, students must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, hold a high school diploma or GED, and have completed at least 50% of their program.
Nine of the scholarship recipients are in their final or penultimate semester. Among them, Donovan Robertson, an automotive technology student, expressed gratitude for the financial support.
“As a young man, I have always wanted to be the best mechanic I could be. Recently, I was doing poorly financially and was unable to pay my tuition completely. However, because of the Scannavino family, I was able to make it,” Robertson said.
For some students, the scholarship supports generational aspirations. Gregory Hester, a second-time recipient, shared how the assistance helps him rebuild his family’s business.
“My dad passed away, and I wanted to continue the legacy of Hester’s Garage by finishing school and getting ASE certified so I could build Hester’s Garage No. 2. I have used the first set [of tools] every day rebuilding the legacy of the family business,” he said.
Kevin Ray, another second-time recipient, is leveraging his scholarship to expand his expertise in both auto collision repair and automotive technology.
“Receiving this scholarship is an honor, and I am highly grateful for this wonderful blessing. Thanks for the jumpstart on this new journey,” Ray said.
The high-performance engines motorsports program also saw first-time scholarship recipients, with many students citing a lifelong passion for racing and automotive engineering.
“Being in these classes has increased my love and passion for this sport even more,” said James Naegele, an aspiring motorsports professional.
The auto collision and repair students, all of whom are second-time scholarship recipients, echoed similar sentiments.
“These tools will help me to continue my education on my way to becoming a great technician,” said Dominque Dillard of Americus, GA.
The scholarship honors Erica Scannavino, who passed away in 2017. A passionate volunteer and history major at Kennesaw State University, Erica’s legacy lives on through this initiative. Her father, Bud Scannavino, began his career in automotive mechanics before transitioning into financial services. The scholarship reflects the family’s commitment to skilled trades education.
SGTC President Dr. John Watford acknowledged the family’s generosity: “Their willingness to partner with our college and foundation serves two very important purposes. First, they have the opportunity to honor their daughter, and then, they have the opportunity to help other students pursue their dreams.”
The South Georgia Technical College Foundation encourages individuals interested in supporting student scholarships to contribute. For more information, contact SGTC Foundation Executive Director Su Ann Bird at 229-931-2110 or sbird@southgatech.edu.
