Applications currently are being accepted for the Dominion Energy Educational Equity Scholarship Program, a new $10 million scholarship fund announced by the energy giant in July to aid African-American, Latino and other young people from under-represented groups seeking a college education or vocational training.

Applicants must be a high school senior or graduate, or a current college undergraduate who lives in Virginia or one of nine other states served by Dominion Energy. Students must have at least a 3.0 GPA and plan to enroll full time in an accredited two-year or four-year institution or a vocational-technical school.

Applicants also must identify as a member of a historically underserved group, including African-American, Latino, American Indian, Asian or Pacific Islander.

The company is awarding 20 $5,000 scholarships for students in two-year programs and 40 $10,000 scholarships for students pursuing four-year degrees. The scholarships are renewable for up to three additional years, contingent on maintaining a cumulative 2.5 GPA.

Winners will be selected based on their academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and com- munity activities, work experience, a statement of goals and aspirations, unusual personal or family circumstances and an online recommendation.

According to the company, 80 percent of the scholarships will be awarded based on a combination of need and merit, with the remaining 20 percent given based on merit.

The application deadline is 4 p.m. Jan. 25. Winners will be notified in May.

The program, which is being administered by Scholarship America, was announced during the summer during the national protests calling for racial justice in the wake of the killing of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis Police. Dominion officials said at the time the initiative was in recognition of the role played by HBCUs in African-American advancement and the importance of education as an equalizer in society.

Details and to apply: www.dominionenergy.com/Equity-Scholarships