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Photo: (left to right) Nancy Ekstrom - HGTC Administrative Specialist for Academic & Workforce Development, Philip Fulton - Father of Blake Fulton, Carolyn Fulton - Mother of Blake Fulton, Jeff Ball - HGTC Chair for Academic & Workforce Development, Dr. Marilyn Fore - HGTC President, Shannon Detzler - HGTC Foundation President / CEO, Brandon Haselden - HGTC Assistant Vice President for Academic & Workforce Development
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is proud to introduce the Blake Allen Fulton Memorial Scholarship, established in 2023 to honor the memory of Blake Allen Fulton, a remarkable student from Andrews High School in Georgetown County, South Carolina. The scholarship commemorates Blake's outstanding achievements, unwavering commitment to his community, and passion for welding.
Blake Fulton was an example of hard work and perseverance. During his senior year of high school, he stood out as a dedicated and talented welding student. His commitment to his craft was evidenced when he not only competed against his peers but also emerged as the district welding competition champion. Blake's journey didn't stop there; he went on to win the South Carolina state championship, earning recognition as one of the state's top welding talents. His achievements led him to compete in the prestigious SkillsUSA® National Competition held in Kansas City, Missouri, where he achieved a remarkable 5th place overall finish. Notably, he secured first place in the written and interview sections, showcasing his well-rounded skills and dedication.
Mr. Jeff Ball, Chair of Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Development at HGTC, fondly remembered Blake as a young man of exceptional tenacity and grit. "I admired his dedication to pursuing his dreams even while he was still a high school senior," said Mr. Ball.
Blake's passion for welding was a stepping stone toward his broader ambitions in engineering, as he aspired to master his future studies at Clemson University. Upon graduating from Clemson and starting a successful career with General Electric, Blake continued to give back to the community that supported him. He generously devoted his time to judging annual South Carolina Technical College welding competitions, providing encouragement and mentorship to current students.
Tragically, Blake Allen Fulton passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 40 after a valiant battle with Lymphoma. Despite his untimely passing, his legacy of resilience lives on through the Blake Allen Fulton Memorial Scholarship.
The Blake Allen Fulton Memorial Scholarship will serve as a lasting tribute to a young man who exemplified the spirit of determination and service. It is a fitting honor for a student whose impact transcended his time at Andrews High School and continued to inspire and support future generations.
The scholarship will be open to eligible students pursuing studies in welding or related fields, embodying the principles and passion that Blake Allen Fulton demonstrated throughout his life. HGTC is dedicated to preserving his memory and the values he held dear.
The purpose of the HGTC Foundation is to raise funds to support the programs, services, and activities of HGTC, its students and employees, and to create and strengthen positive relations between the College and the community.
For more information about the Blake Allen Fulton Memorial Scholarship, please contact the HGTC Foundation, call 843-477-2105 or visit the website.