Eric Dixon was a man who motivated and challenged those around him to be better and do more. Whether with employees and coworkers at ATI in Monroe where he was employed, or fellow Union County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors members where Eric was Chair, Eric was passionate about continuous improvement. Sadly, Eric passed away in 2023, a loss for the community in Union County.
Chamber President and CEO Pat Kahle said of Eric “He provided thoughtful leadership, high energy, wise counsel, a commitment to excellence, and a genuine love for our community. We miss his warm smile, infectious laugh, and above all, his heart for serving others.”
In addition to being a husband, father, mentor, and friend, Eric was a leader in our community. He left behind a legacy of a strong work ethic, love for the community, and mentorship that helped inspire the Eric Dixon Memorial Scholarship.
The scholarship was created in 2023 with a donation from ATI and the Union County Chamber’s Make It In Union County Program. It provides funds for South Piedmont Community College students interested in manufacturing, trades, and apprenticeships. Over the past year, donations from ATI employees, Union County manufacturers, and community members have been added to the fund.
At the Manufacturing Celebration Breakfast on October 3, 2024, Make It In Union County Chair and Goulston President and COO Fred Edwards announced that, thanks to those donations, along with a $5000 donation from ATI and $1000 from the Chamber, the scholarship has surpassed the $15,000 threshold and is fully endowed.
“This guarantees Eric’s memory and the support of education in manufacturing skills will live on in perpetuity, “ Edwards shared. “We know Eric is smiling down on us, but we know what he’s thinking. He’s saying, when are we going to give out that first scholarship?”
With the endowment now over $20,000, Edwards said they hope to award the first scholarship in Eric’s memory next year.
If you are interested in contributing to the scholarship fund, please consider donating to:
Eric Dixon Memorial Scholarship Fund
PO Box 126
Polkton, NC 28135
Last modified: October 4, 2024