Georgia-Pacific and Dixie® Partner with Leaders Education Foundation to Expand Workforce Readiness Scholarships
Dixie®, an iconic Georgia-Pacific consumer brand, has become the Workforce Readiness Scholarship presenting sponsor with an annual donation of $20,000 for five years to Leaders Education Foundation, totaling $100,000. Through this sponsorship, Georgia-Pacific further showcases its commitment to workforce development and education, aligning with the company’s values of investing in its communities and supporting the growth and success of individuals.
Leaders Education Foundation’s Workforce Readiness scholarships help West Tennessee students who are enrolled in a workforce development program or are pursuing industry certifications through West Tennessee community colleges or the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. The Foundation is dedicated to providing education and career development opportunities to individuals in need, and with Geogia-Pacific’s support, they are able to double the number of scholarships, reach more individuals and make a greater impact.
“We are thrilled that Georgia-Pacific recognizes the efforts of Leaders Education Foundation and wanted to expand the program and provide more students with the opportunity to advance their careers without the worry of paying for books or extra expenses. We can do the work of the Foundation because of sponsors like Georgia-Pacific, who believe in helping students in West Tennessee move forward," Leigh Anne Bentley, president of Leaders Education Foundation, said.
Georgia-Pacific announced in 2022 that it would build a $425 million manufacturing facility in Jackson to produce disposable tableware bearing the Dixie® brand, including the Dixie® and Dixie Ultra® lines of plates and bowls. The plant is currently under construction and is expected to begin operation in summer 2024. It will employ approximately 220 people once fully operational. The project is the largest single investment in Madison County history.
“The opportunity to support students who are pursuing education and looking to begin their technical careers is a privilege. Georgia-Pacific and our Dixie® team in Jackson are excited to give back through funding more Leaders Education Foundation Workforce Readiness scholarships,” Mike Cook, plant director at the new Dixie® plant in Jackson, said.
In some situations, students may need every dollar to pursue their technical career. Through this partnership with Georgia-Pacific and Dixie®, more students can receive assistance with costs outside of tuition. The Workforce Readiness Scholarships presented by Dixie® are open three times a year for Summer, Fall and Spring application periods. The next enrollment period opens Friday, Dec.15, and applications will be accepted through Jan.10, 2024. Students can apply by going to https:// www.leadersgives.org/workforce-scholarships.
Scholarship funds can be used for purchasing associated supplies, books, materials, testing fees or other costs associated with the program or certification. Applicants must be a member of Leaders Education Foundation to be eligible.
Anyone can become a member of Leaders Education Foundation through a one-time membership donation of $10 and stay updated when new grants and scholarships are announced. Any donation over the membership fee can be given in honor or in memory of a loved one. Through memberships, sponsorships and donations, the Leaders Education Foundation provides teacher grants, collegiate and workforce readiness scholarships, and lifelong learning resources throughout West Tennessee. To become a member or join as a sponsor of the Foundation, visit https://www.leadersgives.org.
