Dominion Energy recently donated $10,000 to the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) in appreciation for the facility’s support during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Tuesday, Jan. 15, in front of the Convocation Center.
The funding will be directed to the university’s Pacer Response Fund, which helps students cover urgent and essential expenses during times of personal hardship, according to a press release from USCA
In the wake of the hurricane, USCA played a “crucial role” by providing housing and assistance to hundreds of Dominion Energy frontline workers who had traveled from across the country—ranging from Texas to Illinois and Iowa.
“These workers were essential in restoring power to thousands of residents affected by the storm,” stated a USCA press release.
During their stay at the Convocation Center, the workers were provided with essential amenities, including cots for rest, meals, and access to showers—ensuring they were well-equipped for the long hours spent on the frontlines.
District Manager of Dominion Energy’s Western District Tim Warrick emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the company and USCA.
“Hurricane Helene had a significant impact, especially in our western district. To restore power quickly, we needed to bring in resources from across the country,” Warrick said. “One of the challenges we faced was finding housing for the workers, and we are incredibly grateful to rely on partners like USCA in the community.”
Warrick further highlighted the critical role that the university’s support played in the success of the restoration efforts.
“Providing a place for our teams to sleep after working 16 to 18-hour days was vital,” he said. “It made all the difference in our ability to restore power efficiently.”
Greg Lepard, a lineman with 35 years of experience at Dominion Energy, echoed Warrick’s sentiment.
“Many local hotels were closed due to power outages, so having access to cots, food, and showers was a huge help. We’re truly grateful for everything USCA provided,” Lepard said.
USCA Chancellor Daniel J. Heimmermann expressed the university’s commitment to serving the community in times of need.
“At USCA, our mission is to serve, and this is a perfect example of how we can step up in times of crisis,” Heimmermann said. “We are deeply appreciative of the opportunity to support Dominion Energy and its workers.”
In addition to housing Dominion Energy workers, the university provided shelter for at least 138 students, allowing them to remain safely on campus during the storm, as well as providing students on and off campus food, gas, and other necessities.
