AUGUSTA, Ga. () – Augusta Technical College has introduced the Robert Fields Annual Scholarship, aimed at supporting students engaged in various construction disciplines.

Monday’s press release from Augusta Tech revealed that the scholarship was established in memory of Robert Fields by his cousin, Adrian Arnold, who resides in Sacramento, California. Fields, who passed away in 2011, was a resident of the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), where many of his family members continue to live.

The scholarship’s launch was celebrated with a surprise event on December 5.

“My cousin, Robert A. Fields, dedicated his life to personal growth and enhancing the lives of those around him,” said Ms. Arnold. “In honor of his mother, Ms. Elease Harris, I decided to support Augusta Tech’s construction trades students. I hope these funds will aid many in advancing their educational pursuits in her son’s memory.”

The college stated that the scholarship will be managed by the Augusta Tech Foundation, a separate 501(c)3 entity dedicated to garnering and allocating charitable resources to bolster workforce education.

Arnold who is originally from Augusta, said she admires Augusta Technical College for its commitment to students and the community.

“We are delighted to help Ms. Arnold honor her cousin with this new scholarship,” said Cheryl Ciucevich, Augusta Tech’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Although our tuition and fees are much lower than other colleges in the area, most of our students face financial barriers to accessing good-paying, sustainable careers. Scholarships like the Fields Scholarship ensure that more people in our community will be able to achieve their goals.”