The new year is already looking bright for three very lucky students. Panasonic Corporation of North America just announced a commitment of $200,000 to provide full, four-year scholarships for three students at EARTH University, which provides opportunities to young people who want to make a difference in the world, but lack the financial resources for a higher education.

The three students come from the United States, Mexico and Brazil—countries where Panasonic has operations. The students will begin their studies at EARTH’s Costa Rica campus later this month. EARTH University is a private, non-profit, international university, whose one-of-a-kind educational model emphasizes scientific and technical innovation, values, ethics, entrepreneurship and environmental and social commitment. EARTH boasts alumni from 26 countries around the world—87 percent currently working in their country of origin (with 93 percent in Latin America), creating lasting, positive change in these countries.

“Panasonic is proud to support EARTH University’s mission of educating agents of change who will positively impact their communities and surrounding environments,” says Megan Myungwon Lee, Panasonic’s vice president of human resources. “At Panasonic, we’re committed to making a positive impact in all our communities..Panasonic is happy to provide support for these three outstanding students and we look forward to seeing their progress and success.” Added José Zaglul, President of EARTH University: ““Panasonic’s support demonstrates not only shared values, but a real commitment to achieving social, economic and environmental well-being around the world.”

For more information, please go to www.earth-usa.org