W.I.R.E. Jenny Ballard Jenny Ballard co-founded WIRE (Women Involved in Rural Electrification) in 1981, and is the widow of then ECSC Chief Executive Officer, Al Ballard. This scholarship, in her name is sponsored by WIRE. 2005 WIRE Jenny Ballard Opportunity Scholarship for Women Returning to College The WIRE Opportunity Scholarship is awarded to a woman who may not have been able to attend college when she graduated from high school, but now wants to further her education.The $2,500 one-time scholaraship will be presented to an electric cooperative member in South Carolina based on financial need and her personal goals. Applicants for the WIRE Opportunity Scholarship must: • Be a member/customer of a South Carolina electric cooperative • Have graduated from high school or earned your GED at least 10 years ago • Obtained acceptance into an accredited South Carolina college or university • Demonstrate financial need Women who have previously obtained a four-year college degree are not eligible for this scholarship; however, applicants may have previously earned a two-year degree or some college credits.