Four high school seniors from Sampson County have each received a $2,500 scholarship from Monarch Bioenergy to help them take the next step in their education. Josue Sanchez-Medrano of Hobbton High, David Bryant and Jordan Melvin of Lakewood High, and Janiyah McGoogan of Union High are the first students in the county to receive this scholarship, which will be awarded during their first semester of college. All four have shown a strong interest in careers that support clean energy and a healthier environment.
Monarch’s scholarship program is part of their commitment to supporting local students and encouraging them to explore a variety of career paths. In 2024, Monarch awarded scholarships to six students from different backgrounds and interests, believing that solving today’s environmental challenges takes people with all kinds of skills and ideas.
“This is our first year working with Sampson County, and we are excited to continue our partnership with the county and its community,” said Terri Edwards, Monarch’s community liaison officer. “We believe in being good neighbors wherever we do business.”
Monarch works with North Carolina hog farmers to turn farm waste into a clean energy source, helping the environment and supporting local agriculture. The company is currently working with about 27 farmers and landowners in Sampson and Duplin counties on its second local project, after completing a similar effort in Northampton County. Monarch also has projects in Missouri, Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma.
Sampson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jamie King expressed his gratitude for Monarch’s support. “Such initiatives not only benefit individual students but also strengthen the community by preparing the next generation for success in an emerging workforce sector,” Dr. King said. “We appreciate Monarch’s commitment to local education, which helps open doors for our students to pursue new opportunities in renewable energy.”
Josue Sanchez-Medrano
David Bryant
Jordan Melvin
Janiyah McGoogan
About Monarch Bioenergy: According to its website, Monarch Bioenergy's comprehensive approach to education and community engagement demonstrates a deep understanding that true sustainability requires more than technological innovation—it benefits from an informed and engaged populace. By investing in scholarships, offering immersive internships, hosting community events, and educating teachers, Monarch is cultivating a new generation of leaders equipped to tackle the environmental challenges of the future. These initiatives build a skilled workforce for the renewable energy sector and foster a broader cultural shift towards ecological stewardship and sustainable practices.