ROCK HILL, SC – Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys has officially opened applications for the 2026 Elrod Pope Legacy Scholarship. The program will award two $5,000 scholarships to students in South Carolina and North Carolina who are committed to pursuing careers “rooted in excellence, service, and purpose.”
The scholarship honors the legacy of firm leaders Luke Elrod and Jack Leader. By supporting the next generation of leaders, the firm aims to ensure their dedication to the law and community service continues to impact the Carolinas.
Essay Focus: Addressing Drunk Driving Among Young Adults
This year’s scholarship tasks students with addressing a critical safety issue: the high risk of drunk-driving fatalities among young adults ages 21–34. Applicants must submit a minimum 1,000-word essay discussing:
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Why this specific age group faces the highest risk in the Carolinas.
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How the issue of impaired driving affects their generation.
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The roles of personal responsibility, education, and peer influence in reducing these incidents.
The firm encourages creative and well-researched approaches, suggesting students consider interviewing someone affected by a drunk driving accident or exploring technological solutions to the problem.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
The scholarship is open to high school seniors planning to enroll in an accredited two- or four-year college or university, as well as students currently enrolled for the upcoming fall semester. Applicants must be residents of South Carolina or North Carolina.
To apply, students must email the following to [email protected]:
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Written Essay: Minimum of 1,000 words on the specified topic.
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Proof of Enrollment: An unofficial transcript or most recent report card.
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Headshot: A professional photograph for promotional use.
Important Deadlines
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Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 (All entries must be timestamped by this date).
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Winner Notification: Winners will be notified by phone and announced to the public on April 1, 2026.
About Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys
With over 45 years of experience, Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys provides legal representation for personal injury, workers’ compensation, and wrongful death cases. The firm serves the Carolinas through offices in Rock Hill, Lancaster, Fort Mill, Lake Wylie, York, and Charlotte.
For full program terms, conditions, and judging criteria, students should visit the official scholarship page.
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