Columbia Southern University and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) have teamed up to award two scholarships to members of the NVFC. Each scholarship will cover up to 60 credit hours towards one online degree program. The 2024 scholarship recipients are Ellen Yarborough and Levi Robbins.
Ellen Yarborough
Ellen Yarborough
Ellen Yarborough of Wallingford, Pennsylvania, teaches the Leadership in Supervision series of classes at the National Fire Academy. She has decades of experience in education that includes instruction, mentorship and curriculum development. She joined the fire service later in life and quickly became a certified firefighter/EMT, and eventually, a chief officer.
“I consult with fire departments and schools through my Schoolhouse to Firehouse program but realize that my efforts will be more impactful if I have more data-backed evidence and rely less on anecdotal evidence which, to this point, has gotten me quite far,” Yarborough said. “Learning more about navigating the fire service as a ‘business’ rather than the historical/traditional firehouse as (a) grassroots community service provider will provide more polish to my voice.”
With this scholarship, Yarborough plans to pursue a master’s degree in organizational development at CSU.
“The M.S. program at Columbia Southern has been on my radar; however, cost has been a barrier, in particular because I have two children enrolled in college,” she said. “The scholarship will remove that barrier and enable me to engage in the program without concern about financing completion.”
Levi Robbins
Levi Robbins
Levi Robbins of Pleasant Hill, Ohio, works as the assistant chief of EMS with the Greenville City Fire Department. He began volunteering with the fire department at 17 years old and has remained dedicated to the fire service ever since.
“As an active volunteer, receiving this scholarship will significantly enhance my ability to give back to the volunteer fire and emergency services community,” he said. “I aspire to become a strong advocate for the volunteer fire service as I advance in my career.”
With this scholarship, Robbins plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in fire administration at CSU.
“I am committed to furthering my education in the fire service where I can network with experienced professionals and stay updated on the latest advancements in the field,” he said. “Ultimately, this support will empower me to contribute more effectively to my community and advance my career in the fire and emergency services.”
Learn more about the NVFC Scholarship at ColumbiaSouthern.edu/Scholarships.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
