DALLAS – The Electronic Security Association (ESA) has announced the recipient of its 2025 Youth Scholarship Program.
Launched in 1996, the ESA Youth Scholarship Program was developed to support the children of first responders such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs.
The first-place winner of the $20,000 scholarship is Presley Douglas, the son of Jason Douglas, a fire chief and EMT in Metter, Ga.
Awards are based on a combination of academic achievement, national test scores, extracurricular participation and an essay explaining what it means to me to have a parent or guardian involved in securing our community.
“Presley is an outstanding scholarship recipient, excelling academically, working hard in agriculture and livestock and earning recognition for his achievements both in and out of school,” says ESA scholarship chairperson Kelly Bond in the association announcement.
“Presley draws inspiration from his father’s dedication as a fire chief,” she says. “He intends to study animal bioscience at the University of Georgia, followed by veterinary school at UGA. His long-term goal is to open a veterinary hospital near his hometown to serve underserved rural communities in Georgia.”
Why ESA Gives Out Youth Scholarships
It is important for ESA to give back to the first responder community because these brave individuals risk their lives daily to protect and serve others, often without recognition, says Bond. Supporting their children through scholarships is one way ESA honors their sacrifice and strengthens the bond between the security industry and public safety professionals, she says.
“All of the applicants are exceptional young adults,” says Bond in the ESA announcement. “The judging of each applicant is based on their GPA, their awards and accomplishments, the essay that they submit, and their community service.
“These students rank in the top 5% of their class, take advanced courses, stay active in sports and clubs, hold jobs or internships and still make time to volunteer in their communities. I believe this is because they are given such a wonderful example by their parents,” she says.
Douglas attended the award ceremony at ESX 2025 in June at the Cobb County Galleria and Convention Center where he thanked ESA for this honor.
“I am truly honored and beyond grateful to have been selected as the national first place winner of the ESA Youth Scholarship,” he said during his acceptance speech. “This recognition means so much to me and my family, especially given the values and service that have shaped my journey.”
The ESA Youth Scholarship Program has contributed more than $941,500 to the children of first responders throughout the nation. Applications for the 2026 ESA Youth Scholarship Program will open in December.
