Five Effingham Students Receive Brandon Davis Memorial Scholarship to Launch Careers

May 23, 2025

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, GA – Five standout students from the 2025 Workforce PhD program received a $500 scholarship to help them take the next step toward their career goals. This year’s Brandon Davis Memorial Scholarship recipients are Nia Carr and Hayden Fields of Effingham County High School; Adrian Rodriguez-Romero of Effingham College & Career Academy; and Jaylin Allen and Charles Gossett of South Effingham High School.

The scholarships were presented during awards ceremonies held May 19 and 20 and can be used to cover costs such as tools, uniforms, or professional certifications—expenses often required for students entering the workforce directly after high school.

“There are so many resources for students going to college or enlisting in the military, but students heading straight into the workforce often don’t have the same level of support,” said Todd Wall, CEO of Effingham College & Career Academy. “That’s why this scholarship is so important—we want to help them take that first step with confidence.”

Now in its third year, the Brandon Davis Memorial Scholarship was established in 2023 in memory of Brandon Davis, longtime head of maintenance for the Effingham County School District. Davis began his career as a high school student in the district’s work-based learning program and rose through the ranks to lead the maintenance department before his passing at age 37.

“Brandon’s story is a shining example of the power of career and technical education,” said Jessica Hood, vice president of the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority. “We’re honored to support students who are choosing to enter the workforce after graduation.”

“Brandon was a wonderful husband, father, brother, and son. He has touched so many lives and continues to do so every day,” says Melissa Davis, wife of late Brandon Davis. “We are truly honored that the Effingham County School District has named this scholarship after him. He is a true example of this workforce program. Brandon would be speechless to see the way the school district has honored him and his memory.”

Past scholarship recipients are already seeing the benefits of this opportunity. David Hernandez, a 2023 recipient and graduate of Effingham County High School, is now completing an apprenticeship with JCB, gaining hands-on experience with one of the region’s leading manufacturers. His journey reflects the program’s mission to connect students with real-world career pathways. Jacquez Jones, a 2024 graduate of Effingham County High School and scholarship recipient, recently began his career at Georgia-Pacific, where he’s applying the skills and knowledge developed through the Workforce PhD program to a full-time industrial role.

The Workforce PhD program is a collaborative initiative between the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, Effingham County School District, Savannah Technical College, and local employers. Each spring, students tour major industries such as Georgia-Pacific, Aertssen Logistics, and Edwards Interiors, and participate in hands-on training in resume writing, interview techniques, and essential soft skills. Seniors interested in participating in the 2026 Workforce PhD program—and becoming eligible for next year’s scholarship—can sign up this fall.

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