​Don D. Jordan Scholarship

Jordan Scholoarship make "huge difference" for Berard's family

Steve Berard isn't shy about sharing his opinion when asked whether it's worth it to apply for the Don D. Jordan Scholarship.

"It makes a huge difference," said Berard, a CNP financial analyst in Broussard, La. "It's a tremendous help, and something that my kids and I will always be grateful for."

Berard's son, Jacob, received a Jordan Scholarship in 2012 before beginning his studies at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He graduated in December with a degree in mechanical engineering. Jacob's younger sister, Ashley, earned a Jordan Scholarship in 2014 and is also enrolled at UL-Lafayette with a double major, planning to teach art in college after she graduates.

Applications are being accepted for the 2017 Don D. Jordan Scholarship through March 31. The program offers scholarships to legal dependents of CenterPoint Energy employees and retirees to recognize outstanding community service.

Jacob recently produced a short video about the impact of his scholarship. His dad shares his enthusiasm.

"The Jordan Scholarship gives you a great start," Steve said. "Any parent who has kids in college knows there's financial pressure. When Jacob and Ashley earned their scholarships, it helped to relieve some of the worry."

Jacob had an internship in CNP's Gas Engineering last summer, and it was extended until December. He also worked at UL's Marine Survival Training Center, teaching offshore oil and gas workers how to escape from helicopters. Steve Berard said his son hopes to find a full-time job with CNP.

"I hope employees will take advantage of the Jordan Scholarship, because it's a wonderful opportunity," Berard said. "I feel very fortunate to work for a company that cares enough to help employees see that their kids are able to get a college education."

The Don D. Jordan Scholarship has undergone several updates for this year: 

  • Applicants up to age 25 by the semester of the award are now eligible (raised from age 22)
  • Applicants are asked to provide more detailed information about recent community service
  • The maximum number of awards that any one applicant can receive is now set at four

The annual scholarship is funded with monies from the Don D. Jordan Foundation, proceeds of the CenterPoint Energy Barbecue Cook-off, the Salty Dog Fishing Tournament and other contributors, including the CenterPoint Energy Retirees Club. The scholarship award amount varies from year to year. In 2016, scholarship recipients received one-time $3,500 awards.   

Complete details and the application form are available on the Scholarships page on CNP Today. Anyone with questions can contact Tracy Janda, scholarship program coordinator.