Image: Tracie Wells, HR Business Manager, shares details about the Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship with students at St. Croix Central High School on December 9.
U.S. Virgin Islands (December 15, 2025) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) is actively engaging students across the territory through a series of informational sessions highlighting the Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship Program, the largest scholarship in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which provides students with meaningful educational support and pathways to careers in engineering and technical fields.
Representatives from WAPA’s Human Resources and Communications teams presented to 30 juniors and seniors at St. Croix Central High School on December 9, 22 seniors at The Good Hope Country Day School on December 10, and 8 seniors at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School on December 11.
The team shared details about the Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship and encouraged students to apply for the Bachelor’s and Technical Degree awards, which can provide up to $80,000 in funding. Additional school visits are planned this week and throughout January 2026, ensuring students in both districts have full access to information and support ahead of the application deadline.
“The Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship is an investment in the future of the Virgin Islands,” said Tracie Wells, HR Business Partner at WAPA. “We are proud to provide students with the resources and guidance they need to pursue higher education and careers in engineering and technical fields. We encourage all eligible students to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.”
The Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship is designed to support students as they pursue higher education, including degrees and certificates in engineering and related technical fields, offering financial assistance that helps reduce barriers to academic and professional success. The program features the following award categories:
Bachelor’s Degree – Up to $80,000
Eligible applicants include:
- Graduating high school seniors
- College freshmen and sophomores
- UVI students enrolled or planning to enroll in the five-year engineering program
Associate’s Degree / Technical Certification – Up to $30,000
Eligible applicants include:
- Graduating high school seniors pursuing an associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field
- Individuals planning to attend trade school or pursue technical certification
Scholarships in each category are awarded per district, supporting students from both St. Croix and St. Thomas–St. John.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.
###