HOUSTON – College is getting more expensive, but 10 lucky high school seniors can get $10,000 paid off their tuition through an inaugural scholarship.
The Astros Foundation and Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. announced applications for “Daikin’s Most Valuable STEAM Scholarship,” opened Monday, March 3, and will remain open through April 14, 2025.
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According to a news release, Daikin’s annual scholarship recognizes students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics— thereby going beyond STEM by including subjects like fine arts and manual arts like architecture and labor design, physical and labor arts. If qualified, 10 lucky graduating seniors can earn a $10,000 scholarship.
“The Astros Foundation is excited to team up with Daikin to invest in Houston’s future leaders as they pursue higher education,” Emelda Douglas, Senior Vice President of Community Affairs for the Houston Astros and Executive Director of the Astros Foundation said. “By supporting these talented students, we are empowering them to focus their passion and creativity to positively impact our community and beyond.”
“At Daikin, we believe in the unlimited potential of people and know student scholarships are crucial for fostering the next generation of innovative thinkers,” Kristi Pittman, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Daikin added. “We are proud to play a role in supporting our local youth through this inaugural scholarship program and look forward to seeing them score home runs in college and beyond.”
Here are the key requirements necessary to apply for the scholarship:
- A 300-word essay on the importance of STEAM education and how it has contributed to personal growth, academic achievements and career aspirations.
- Graduating high school seniors in the class of 2025 that will be attending a higher education institution upon graduation and provide proof of acceptance.
- Permanent address in one of the following Texas counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Walker, Waller and Wharton.
- Complete the application by the deadline along with two adult letters of recommendation.
This announcement comes less than a week after Daikin hosted its big-league debut with Houston Astros and the City of Houston.
The celebration featured a commemorative sake barrel tapping ceremony, which organizers say is commonly performed at business events and served as a nod to Daikin’s Japanese heritage.
“It was a special occasion bringing together the City of Houston, the local business community, and our new ballpark partner Daikin to celebrate the beginning of our collaborative new partnership,” Jim Crane, Owner and Chairman of the Houston Astros said in a statement. “Daikin is a best-in-class global organization that is committed to investing in the Houston community.”
“Through ‘Daikin Park,’ Daikin is committed to fostering collaboration with the Astros, the City of Houston, the City Council, and the Greater Houston Partnership,” Jiro Tomita, Representative, Americas Chairman of the Board for Daikin, added. “Our goal is to expand our efforts in contributing to the society, starting here in Houston and extending throughout the U.S.”
Graduating seniors can learn more or apply for Daikin’s Most Valuable STEAM Scholarship by clicking here. You can also learn more about Daikin Park by visiting their website.