Triumphing over tragedy: Scholarship helps Cody Garner pursue career goals

ATSS Foundation needs help to continue providing Roadway Worker Memorial Scholarships

The last time Cody Garner saw his father was when he dropped him at football practice. Hours later, his father was killed in a work zone accident.

John W. Garner died on Aug. 5, 2014 at the age of 52.

Cody was just beginning his sophomore year of high school when he lost his father. Today he’s starting his senior year at the University of Arkansas where he is pursuing a double major and a double minor. He’s grateful to the American Traffic Safety Services Foundation for the Roadway Worker Memorial Scholarship he has received each year of his college studies.

Scholarships are available for the loved ones of fallen or permanently disabled roadway workers to assist them with pursuing post-high school education and achieving their dreams. They are awarded annually for up to $10,000 on a competitive basis. Applicants like Cody who demonstrate a strong commitment to volunteerism may be eligible to receive an additional $1,000 in honor of Chuck Bailey, an esteemed member of the roadway safety industry who died in 2002.

Cody is one of 14 students receiving a Roadway Worker Memorial Scholarship for the 2020-21 academic year. Each student has a unique story to tell of overcoming the death or permanent disability of a parent and gratitude for the support of people who have given to The Foundation, which enabled them to pursue their career dreams.

Though this year’s pandemic has challenged people in countless ways, The Foundation still needs help to carry out the programs it offers to support individuals and families impacted by work zone incidents.

“Despite the pandemic, our work carries on and the needs still exist,” said Foundation Associate Director Lori Diaz. “We rely on the generosity of individuals and companies to help us carry out our mission. Every contribution helps, no matter what the size.”

Tax-deductible donations can be made online or by mail using an online gift form.