–Six DFW College-Bound Students Surprised with $10,000 Scholarships–

DALLAS – May 5, 2021 – The 2021 NFL Draft may be over, however, six DFW student-athletes received a big surprise to kickstart their college careers yesterday as they were each presented with $10,000 scholarships from Reliant and Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Jaylon Smith. The new program, Star Scholars powered by Reliant, is a collaborative effort between the electricity provider and the Dallas Cowboys that recognizes deserving student-athletes for their leadership, determination and commitment to athletics, academics and the community.

The debut class of scholarship recipients featured students from Arlington ISD and Dallas ISD that participate in baseball, soccer, football, track, basketball, softball and wrestling, with most students playing multiple sports. The college-bound students were nominated in secret by teachers, mentors and coaches to recognize their achievements, including maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.

“Reliant is excited to join with our longtime partners, the Dallas Cowboys, to launch this new scholarship program designed to celebrate local youth who are making an impact in the classroom, on the field and in their communities,” said Andrea Russell, vice president of Reliant. “We admire the determination and hard work of each of these amazing young people as they successfully navigated a challenging year while preparing for their college careers. We know their futures are bright!”

The 2021 Star Scholars include:

• Mackenzie Amaya, senior at Woodrow Wilson High School, participates in softball, basketball and cross country. She is passionate about academics and will be a first-generation college student. Mackenzie participates in Dallas ISD’s Leaders in Training program and volunteers for numerous organizations, including Jubilee Park, Meals on Wheels, Austin Street Shelter and a local mentorship program.

• Kennedi Arceneaux, senior at James Bowie High School, is a long jumper and sprinter and is in the top 5% of her class. Kennedi is enrolled in AP and dual credit classes. As track team captain, Kennedi leads by example and is a team player. She has received many honors and awards for her athletic achievements in track and field and volleyball. Kennedi also volunteers for numerous organizations in her community.

• Rodney Bethany, senior at W. H. Adamson High School, participates in football and wrestling. As a junior, he made it to state in wrestling. Rodney is a well-respected leader of the football team. Since his freshman year, he earned the respect of those younger and older, all because of the way he carries himself and how focused he is on doing his part. His coaches admire his discipline, hard work and commitment to academics.

• Anna Lewis, senior at Lamar High School, is a three-year starter in varsity soccer and has maintained a 4.0 GPA for the duration of her high school career. She is committed to academics and is enrolled in many AP and dual credit classes. Anna has a positive attitude and leads by example. She is a member of HOSA and the National Honor Society and has attended the 2018 STARS Chemistry and 2019 STARS Physics Summer Camps.

• Jayleen Record, senior at James Madison High School, is ranked in the top 10 of his senior class. He continues to impress his peers and teachers with his academic leadership. Jayleen, who recently signed with Southern Methodist University to play football, was an All-State performer as a junior and an All-District performer for three consecutive years. Jayleen maintains a positive attitude and always exemplifies character and discipline.

• Noah Sample, senior at W. T. White High School, is a 2nd team All-District football wide-receiver and baseball outfielder. He is an excellent athlete and scholar, who exhibits courage and a selfless mindset. Noah leads Fellowship of Christian Athletes as team captain. He is also a church youth group leader and volunteer for the Special Olympics. Noah was recently accepted into the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets.

The students were selected by five judges: Charlotte Jones, Dallas Cowboys Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer; Jaylon Smith, Dallas Cowboys Linebacker; Darren Woodson, Dallas Cowboys Legend; Bill Jones, Dallas Cowboys Broadcasting and CBS 11 Sports; and Leanne Schneider, Reliant Director of Community Marketing.

In addition to the surprise scholarship check presentations totaling $60,000 at The Star in Frisco, students, families and nominators enjoyed a memorable experience with athletic activities, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Rowdy the mascot, Rhythm & Blue Drumline and more. Click here for more information about the program.

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Reliant powers, protects and simplifies life by bringing electricity, security and related services to homes and businesses across Texas. Serving customers and the community is at the core of what we do, and the company is recognized nationally for outstanding customer experience. Reliant is part of NRG, a Fortune 500 company that creates value by generating electricity and providing energy solutions to more than 3.5 million residential and commercial customers across the U.S. and Canada. NRG’s competitive residential electricity business, which includes Reliant, is one of the largest in the country. For more information about Reliant, visit reliant.com and connect with Reliant on Facebook at facebook.com/reliantenergy and Twitter or Instagram @reliantenergy. PUCT Certificate #10007.

Media Contact:

Megan Talley

713-537-2160

Megan.Talley@reliant.com