Trident Literacy Association (TLA) is proud to announce the launch of the Eileen Chepenik Scholarship Fund, a new initiative created to support adult learners in achieving their educational and career goals.
Named in honor of former Executive Director and dedicated advocate Eileen Chepenik (pictured), this scholarship reflects her lasting impact on literacy, opportunity, and community advancement. The fund will provide critical financial assistance to adult learners working to improve their reading, writing, and English language skills. These efforts help open doors to employment, higher education, and greater self-sufficiency.
“Eileen stepped into leadership at a time when Trident Literacy Association faced significant challenges, including financial instability, inadequate facilities, and fragile community relationships,” said Merv Gibson, TLA Board Chair Emeritus. “Through her vision and determination, she stabilized the organization’s finances, secured a suitable facility, and helped establish TLA as a respected service provider across the tri-county region. She also led TLA to national recognition by the Barbara Bush Foundation by incorporating mentorship into the organization’s approach to learning. TLA exists today because of her years of dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment to our students.”
Reflecting on her time with the organization, Eileen Chepenik shared, “It was a joy for me every day for almost 20 years to be a part of an organization that had such a transformational impact on people's lives. Possibilities blossomed. Beautiful futures were launched. Our students gained dignity and hope. Trident Literacy made that possible.”
The Eileen Chepenik Scholarship will help remove financial barriers for learners enrolled in TLA programs, including Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). By easing these burdens, recipients can focus on building the skills they need to thrive personally and professionally.
TLA will celebrate the establishment of the scholarship with a special luncheon honoring Eileen Chepenik on Thursday, June 18th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the North Charleston Marriott, 4770 Goer Drive, North Charleston, SC 29406. The event will bring together community leaders, supporters, and partners who share a commitment to literacy and lifelong learning.
For more information, to support the scholarship, or to purchase tickets to the luncheon, please visit tridentlit.org/events/ecsl or contact Philicia Baugh, Director of Partnerships, at pbaugh@tridentlit.org.