The Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District recently awarded $1,000 scholarships to two graduating seniors from Landrum High School, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving others.
This year’s recipients are Garrett Bridges and Bryson Dotson, both student-athletes who distinguished themselves through academic excellence, community involvement and character.
Garrett Bridges will attend the University of South Carolina this fall, where he plans to major in Political Science. A member of the football and baseball teams at Landrum High School, Bridges graduated ranked 46th in his class with a 4.482 GPA.
Throughout high school, Bridges dedicated countless hours to serving others through his church and organizations such as Operation Hope. His volunteer work included packing food boxes for families, preparing snack bags for children and participating in mission trips. Coming from a family involved in fire and EMS service, Bridges has long valued community service and helping others.
“It’s important to be the hands and feet of Jesus helping others that may not be as fortunate as I am, making a difference or just making someone smile,” Bridges said.
Teachers described Bridges as resilient, hardworking, and mature beyond his years, noting his initiative, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence in every aspect of life.
Bryson Dotson will attend Clemson University this fall and plans to major in Agricultural Mechanization and Business Turfgrass. Dotson graduated ranked 34th in his class with a 4.500 GPA.
During his time at Landrum High School, Dotson participated in golf, fishing, Student Council, Beta Club, FCA, and FFA. He has also been deeply involved in community service efforts, including assisting Operation Hope, supporting Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, and helping firefighters clear trees from roadways following storms.
“All of these experiences have helped shape me into someone who values hard work, helping others, and being there when it counts,” Dotson said.
Teachers described Dotson as a natural leader who demonstrates integrity, empathy, and dedication both inside and outside the classroom. They praised his humility, discipline and ability to positively impact those around him.
“These scholarships represent more than academic success,” said Pam Hilsman, Chair of the Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District Commission. “Garrett and Bryson both embody the values of service, leadership, and compassion that make our community strong. We are proud to invest in these outstanding young men as they pursue their futures.”
Fire Chief Warren Ashmore said the District is honored to support students who have already demonstrated a commitment to giving back to their community.
“Both Garrett and Bryson have shown that leadership is about serving others,” Ashmore said. “They have bright futures ahead of them, and we are excited to see the impact they will continue to make in their communities, schools, and professions.”
The Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District said the scholarship program reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting education, community involvement and the next generation of leaders.
“Our department is honored and privileged to serve this community,” Ashmore added. “Investing in the lives and dreams of our students is another way we can help strengthen the future of Landrum.”
About the Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District
The Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District was created on June 3, 2015 by Act 48 of the South Carolina General Assembly to address evolving fire and emergency needs of the coverage area of the former Landrum Fire Department that included the incorporated City of Landrum, a contract area in Spartanburg County outside (but adjacent to) the city, and approximately 22% of the Foothills Fire Service Area in Greenville County. The district was created to transition from a part-time paid department relying primarily on volunteers to a full-time paid staff of fire fighters with emergency response personnel augmented by volunteers. For more information about the Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District, visit www.LandrumFire.com.
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