The “547” John E. McGlamry Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2012 to honor the life and career of Georgia State Trooper John E. McGlamry. The scholarship is for graduating high school seniors who are the children of active or retired Georgia State Troopers. Recipients of the scholarship are selected on merit and their response to an essay on “wisdom, justice and moderation. The 2024 scholarship will be awarded for $5,000 and is a one-time award.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating high school senior whose parent is an active or retired Georgia State Trooper

The Bill Wilson scholarship is to be awarded to graduating athletes from Gainesville High School. It was established to honor and help student athletes like Bill who played baseball and football for GHS. The recipient should have clearly defined educational goals and work hard both on the field and off. The 2024 scholarship award is $2,900.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Gainesville High School
• Student athlete in good standing with GHS

The Billy Ellis Memorial Scholarship was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in 2001 in memory of former Johnson High School principal Billy Ellis. The 2024 scholarship award is $1,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Johnson High School
• Minimum GPA 2.5

The Billy Rogers Leadership Scholarship was created in memory of Billy Rogers by his family. The winner will be selected from the remaining ten finalists of the GHS Alumni Scholarship after its recipient has been selected. The scholarship is available to a graduating senior at Gainesville High School with a minimum GPA of 2.6. The 2024 scholarship will be a one-time award in the amount of $500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of Gainesville High School
• Minimum GPA of 2.6
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school in Georgia as a full-time student

This scholarship was created in loving memory of Catherine Green Hardie by her family and will benefit graduating seniors from Rabun County High School who plan to further their education. The scholarship is endowed and will live on forever in Cathy’s memory. The 2024 scholarship is $3,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Live in Rabun County
• Rabun County High School graduating senior or GED recipient
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school in the U.S.

The Charles Black Scholarship Fund award identifies and recognizes high school seniors at various high schools in northeast Georgia who have achieved excellence in school and community life. The scholarship fund was created by the Charles Black Construction Company in 2002 as a way to show appreciation for past business relationships by giving back to the community. The scholarship was formally known as the Northeast Georgia School Superintendent’s Scholarship. The resulting scholarships recognize today’s graduating seniors, inspire undergraduate students, and will impact the quality of life in our communities for generations to come. The scholarship is a one-time award, and the recipient school systems and amounts are determined each year by the Charles Black Construction Company. The 2024 scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior who plans to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school.

The 2024 scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors at: Madison County High School, Banks County High School, Franklin County High School, Commerce City, White County High School, Towns County High School, Rabun County High School, Hart County High School, Gilmer County High School, Winder-Barrow High School, Apalachee High School, Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy, Union County High School, Elbert County High School, Lanier Christian Academy, and Lumpkin County High School.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of one of the designated high schools
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school

This scholarship was established in 1985 in memory of Chuck Massey, a North Hall High School student who exceled in academics. This scholarship is awarded annually to the student in the current graduating class at North Hall High School who has the highest GPA at the beginning of their final Spring Semester. The 2024 scholarship is a one-time award in the amount of $1,000. The scholarship recipient will also receive an engraved plaque from Judith Massey-Williamson.

Coach Ray Lamb has had an incredible impact in the life of every person he has met. As a high school football coach, Lamb believed in traditions, social mores, sportsmanship, and fair play; and instilled this in the players that he coached. Coach Lamb gave of himself for others, specifically kids, to have opportunities to better themselves. The Coach Ray Lamb Scholarship Fund was established by people who wanted to honor this special man in their lives. The scholarship fund is administered by the North Georgia Community Foundation. Graduating seniors from Commerce High School will be able to apply for this opportunity if they meet the stated criteria. Applicants need to have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA and must have participated in at least one sport while in high school as well as be able to share about how they have been involved in the community. In 2024 there will be a scholarship award offered for both a male and a female, each in the one-time award amount of $2,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from Commerce High School
• Minimum GPA 2.5
• Planning to enroll full-time or part-time as a student at an accredited public or private post-secondary two-or four-year college, university, or vocational school.
• Participated in a high school sport
• Proven involvement in the community

This scholarship was established in 2017 by Coleman, Chambers & Rogers LLP. This scholarship was created out of awareness and gratitude for first responders in North Georgia. This scholarship is available to current and active members of the First Responders, their children and grandchildren for Gainesville, all municipalities and Hall County, Georgia. For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire or EMS workers. The 2024 scholarship will award one recipient in the amount of $1,200.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Current and active First Responders/EMS workers, their children and grandchildren for Gainesville, all municipalities and Hall County, Georgia
• Minimum 2.4 GPA unless a non-traditional student
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time or part-time student

The Colleen S. Ivey Scholarship Fund was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in December of 2023. Ms. Ivey was of the Baptist faith and a member of Union Baptist Church in Union County. She has a passion for young people and was interested in learning how they intended to further their ministry through their chosen career path. This scholarship is a one-time award to full-time senior, who is a resident of Union County attending Union County High School, Woody Gap School or is homeschooled. The student should identify as being a member of the Baptist faith and is required to maintain a GPA of 2.75 or above, attending a public or private college or university full-time. Financial need will be the primary consideration of potential scholarship candidates; community service and volunteering will also be taken into consideration as well. The 2024 scholarship will award one student for $10,000, awarded at $2,500/year.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• A resident of Union County who is a full-time senior attending Union County High School, Woody Gap School or homeschooled
• Planning to enroll full-time as a student at an accredited public or private post-secondary four-year college or university
• Minimum GPA of 2.75
• Identifies as a member of the Baptist faith

The D.J. Davenport Memorial Scholarship was established to recognize well-rounded, civic-minded North Hall High School seniors who have achieved excellence in math and science. The 2024 scholarship is awarded in the one-time amount of $800.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at North Hall High School
• Achieved excellence in math and science

This scholarship will be awarded every other year to a graduating high school senior or college level student who resides in Gainesville-Hall County. Students applying for this scholarship must be interested in STEM (Sciences, Technology, Engineering or Math). Great emphasis will be put on students aspiring to major in Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, Security, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Informatics. This scholarship awards every other year.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating Hall County high school or Homeschool senior or college-level student
• Interest in STEM
• GPA 2.0 or higher

This scholarship is awarded to a North Georgia First Responder, their child or spouse who are pursuing their post-secondary education. For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire, EMS workers and Communications officers. In 2024, the award is $1,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Must be a First Responder
• OR Child or spouse of a First Responder
• Minimum 2.5 GPA

This scholarship is awarded to a North Georgia First Responder, their child or spouse who are pursuing their post-secondary education. For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire, EMS workers and Communications officers. In 2024, the award is $500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Must be a First Responder
• OR Child or spouse of a First Responder
• Minimum 2.5 GPA

This scholarship was established by legendary GHS alumni, Deshaun Watson, as a way to help students from his hometown of Gainesville, Georgia, further their education. Consideration will be given to applicants who have shown participation in extracurricular activities, volunteering, or have been employed during high school. Two scholarships will be awarded in 2024 in the amount of $­­­­2,000 each.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating Gainesville High School senior
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student

The Don and Debbie Golden Scholarship Fund was established by their daughters after Mr. & Mrs. Golden tragically passed in a car accident. Mrs. Golden was a counselor at Mount Vernon Elementary School and had 30 years’ experience in education. Mr. Golden taught & coached at North Forsyth High School and North Hall High School. He was a punter on the University of Georgia football team under Coach Dooley. The 2024 scholarship cycle will award two recipients at $1,900 each.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from Gainesville-Hall County schools or Homeschool students residing in Hall County
• Education major at University of Georgia
• Planning to attend University of Georgia as a full-time student

The Donald Moss Scholarship Fund was established in January of 2017 to provide scholarship opportunities to graduating seniors at Dawson County High School who plan to attend an accredited post-secondary college, university, or vocational school in the U.S. The 2024 scholarship will award 13 scholarships that total $15,000 each over the course of four years of college (increments = $5,000 first year, $4,000 second year, $3,000 third and fourth years).

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of Dawson County High School
• OR GED recipient that is a resident of Dawson County
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student
• 2.5 minimum GPA which must be maintained each year to renew

This scholarship was established by the EE Butler Class of ’69 in honor of their class. The scholarship is awarded every other year to a graduating senior in Gainesville-Hall County. This scholarship awards every other year.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating Hall County school seniors or GED recipients
• OR Descendants of the E.E. Butler Class of ‘69
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university or technical school as a full-time student
• Minimum GPA 2.0

This scholarship was established in 2017 to provide a scholarship opportunity to a current employee, or the child or grandchild of a current employee of the AutoZone Lavonia Distribution Center. The recipient may be a high school senior, a GED recipient, or currently enrolled in college. The award is open to students attending school on a part-time or full-time basis. GPA, financial need & extra-curricular/community activities will be considered when choosing a recipient. One scholarship for $2,500 will be awarded in 2024.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Must be a current employee or child or grandchild of a current employee of the AutoZone Lavonia Distribution Center

This scholarship is awarded to a North Georgia First Responder, their child or spouse who are pursuing their post-secondary education. For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire, EMS workers and Communication officers. In 2024, the award is $500.

Criteria:

• First Responders
• OR Spouse, Child of a First Responder
• GPA of 2.5 or higher

This scholarship is awarded to a North Georgia First Responder, their child or spouse who are pursuing their post-secondary education. For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire, EMS workers and Communications officers. In 2024, the award is $500.

Criteria:

• First Responders
• OR Spouse, Child of a First Responder
• GPA of 2.5 or higher

The Flo Towson Music Scholarship was established by The Arts Council and provides one scholarship for graduating seniors and home-schooled students from Hall County who plan to pursue higher education in the field of music at an accredited institute of higher learning within in the state of Georgia. In 2024, one scholarship in the amount of $750 will be awarded.

• Graduating Hall County school or home-schooled Hall County student
• Planning to attend college in the state of Georgia majoring in the field of music

The Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship Fund was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in 2014. The Sims were active participants and supporters of their communities and the Baptist Church in White, Hall, and Oglethorpe Counties. Their Christian beliefs led them to follow Christ’s teaching in Matthew 22: v37-40 – to first love God and second to love thy neighbor as thyself. The Fund was established by their three children- Jackie, Michael, and Hal- to honor their faith and memory.

Recipients of the award must attend a high school located in Hall County or White County, GA, or homeschool students residing in Hall County or White County, GA and plan to attend an accredited U.S. college/university, have a minimum 3.0 GPA and should be able to demonstrate active involvement in extra-curricular and/or community activities such as volunteer activities, work activities and church activities. In 2024, this scholarship awards one $1,750 scholarship.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from a Hall County or White County, GA public or private school or homeschool student residing in Hall County or White County, GA
• GPA 3.0 or higher
• Actively involved in extra-curricular and/or community activities such as work, church, and volunteer opportunities
• Planning to attend a U.S. accredited college, university or vocational school as a full-time or part-time student

CLICK HERE to Donate to the Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was established for graduating seniors of Franklin County High School. A combination of GPA, financial need, & extra-curricular/community activities will be considered in choosing a recipient. In 2024, one scholarship for $2,500 will be awarded to a student who demonstrates all-around good character.

Criteria:

• Franklin County High School graduating senior
• Minimum GPA 2.1
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school in the U.S. as a full-time student

The Fund the Dream Scholarship Fund was established in 2022 by the Hispanic Alliance, GA. The purpose of this scholarship is to ‘Build the Dream, One Graduate at a Time.’ Minority students from first-generation/low-income backgrounds face systemic roadblocks while navigating the college admissions process. Graduating seniors coming from low-income families are seven times more likely to drop out than those from families with higher income. In addition, 74% of Latino students enrolled in colleges and universities in the U.S. cut their education short due to the financial pressures of supporting their families. To help mitigate the educational opportunity gap and student debt crisis, the Hispanic Alliance Georgia Fund the Dream Scholarship will support one student who has huge aspirations for their life and is willing to work through anything to achieve them. This scholarship is funded by proceeds from the annual Latino Fest in Gainesville, Georgia and is part of our commitment to making academic and scholarship support more accessible for all students.

When choosing a recipient, the selection committee will take into consideration factors such as the applicant’s academic achievement, financial need, immigration status, volunteering efforts, future educational goals, and responses to essay question. Special consideration will be given to students participating in the Latino Youth Leadership Academy. The 2024 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from a Hall County public school (including GHS)
• Minimum GPA 2.5
• Immigrant born outside of the US, of Hispanic origin, with both parents born outside of the US
• First Generation college student
• Planning to attend accredited post-secondary two-or four-year college, university, or technical school in the U.S. or Puerto Rico on a full-time basis

The scholarship was established in 2010 by family, friends, and students of Gail Ingram, who has made a lasting impact on student with over 40 years in education. In 2024, this needs-based, $1,000 award is available to graduating seniors from six area schools. Preference will be given to those pursuing a degree in education. Special consideration will be given to any foster care student in the Ninth District area.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from Banks, Hall, Habersham, Jackson, Lumpkin, or White County high schools
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Planning to attend a public school in the University System of Georgia as a full-time student
• Demonstrated financial need

The Gainesville Invests in Future Teachers (GIFT) Scholarship is a source of funds that provides an incentive to enroll in Georgia universities that offer teaching degrees with additional and an extra award to support those who graduate with teaching degrees in their initial year of employment. In 2024, one student will be awarded a $7,500 scholarship, distributed in $1,500 increments over five years.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Gainesville High School
• Planning to attend a public school in the University System of Georgia as a full-time student
• Planning to major in education and become a teacher
• GPA of 3.0 which must be maintained to renew

Learn more about this scholarship by CLICKING HERE

This scholarship supports college students pursuing a degree in poultry science or a related agricultural degree. Applicants should be graduating high school seniors or current college students pursuing a career in the poultry industry, majoring in Agricultural Business, Poultry Science, Food Science, Animal Science, Food Marketing, Agricultural Economics, etc. In 2024, one $2,000 scholarship will be awarded.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating high school senior, GED recipient or current college full-time student
• Pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in the poultry industry
• Minimum GPA 3.0
• Resident of the state of Georgia
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student

This scholarship is for graduating seniors at public, private or homeschools in Hall County. Applicants must reside in Hall County and must play a musical instrument. In 2024, the scholarship award amount is $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from Hall County-Gainesville schools, Homeschool or GED recipient
• Must reside in Hall County
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student
• Must play a musical instrument

This scholarship was created and endowed by the GHS Class of ’64 to encourage graduates of GHS to help leave a legacy through contributing to the fund. This was the second class project that the Class undertook and in 2019 the name of the scholarship became ‘GHS Alumni Scholarship’ in order to encourage other graduates of GHS to help leave a legacy by contributing to the fund.

In 2024 the review committee for this scholarship will select one recipient to receive an award of $2,500. They will also select the recipient of the Billy Roger Leadership Scholarship, which is a one-time award of $500.00.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of Gainesville High School
• Resident of Hall County
• Minimum GPA of 2.6
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school as a full-time student

This scholarship was created in 2023 by the family of Ms. Glenda Brooks. It is intended to honor the memory of Ms. Brooks who was passionate about education and retired as a principal of White County High School. The 2024 scholarship is a one-time award of $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at White County High School
• GPA of 2.5 or greater
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student

The Grace Sheer Scholarship Fund was established.to honor the legacy of Grace Elizabeth Sheer. Grace attended Dawson County High School from 2014-2018. While at Dawson County High School, Grace participated in numerous activities, most prominently playing soccer on the Junior Varsity and Varsity Women’s Soccer Team. She was also a member of the Chamber Singers, Interact Club and the National Spanish Honors Society. She volunteered to assist with the Theater Department’s tech crew, and maintained an impressive grade point average throughout her high school years. Grace was on the football homecoming court her freshman, sophomore, and junior year and as a high school senior, she was voted football Homecoming Queen. She was further voted as Ms. DCHS for senior superlatives.

Most importantly, though, Grace was a kind soul. She was outgoing, friendly, curious, adventurous, and uplifting. She unquestionably loved her family, friends, community and life; and, this showed every day through her uncompromising character.

This scholarship will annually award a senior female athlete from Dawson County High School to help them pursue their educational journey. The 2024 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,500. Applicants must exemplify excellence in academics, sports and extracurricular activities as detailed in the scholarship criteria.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Female, graduating senior of Dawson County High School
• Athlete; participation in an organized school sport
• Participation in a school club
• Minimum GPA 3.5
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university or technical school in the State of Georgia on a full-time basis

This scholarship was established in 2008 by the Hall County Optimist Club to honor long-time educators, J.H. Holcomb and his sisters, Margaret, Mildred, and Nell. Applicants must have demonstrated financial need and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. The 2024 award is $1,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Hall County or Gainesville City public high school, GED recipient or home-schooled graduate who is a resident of Hall County
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student majoring in education
• GPA of 3.0 or higher

This scholarship was established in 2020 in honor of North Hall High School counselors Jan Black and Mary Lawson. Priority will be given to those applicants who are first generation college students. The 2024 award will be $500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from North Hall High School
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school

The Jenny Melton Scholarship Fund was established in 2002 in Jenny’s memory by her family and friends. Jenny, a West Hall High School athlete and honor student, tragically lost her life on March 19, 2002, in a single car accident on her way to school. The 2024 scholarship will award a total of two $2,000 scholarships: one to a graduating senior from West Hall High School and one to a graduating senior from Cherokee Bluff High School.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Cherokee Bluff High School
• Graduating senior at West Hall High School
• Planning to attend an accredited college/university as a full-time studentl

The Jessica Heard Scholarship Fund was established.in memory of Jessica Heard, by her family. Jessica loved the Forsyth County community and was very proud of her family. She was also very passionate about giving back and serving for a purpose. One of the ways that Jessica’s family chose to honor her legacy was by creating this scholarship that will annually award a graduating senior, or past graduate, from North Forsyth High School, to help them pursue their educational journey. The 2024 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,500. When choosing a recipient, financial need will be considered, as well as a heavy emphasis on extra-curricular/community activities and volunteering efforts.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of North Forsyth High School planning to attend a post-secondary two-or four-year college, university, or vocational school.
• Minimum GPA 2.5
• Graduate from North Forsyth High School who is currently enrolled as a student at an accredited post-secondary two-or four-year college, university, or vocational school.

The Jim & Dee Snow Optimist Scholarship was established in 2013 by the Gainesville Evening Optimist Club. Jim and Dee Snow spent their entire working lives as educators, dedicating themselves to encouraging and helping young people. One $1,000 award is available in 2024. Special consideration will be given to students with an emphasis on service to the community.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating seniors from Hall County or Gainesville City Schools or home-schooled graduate who is a resident of Hall County
• OR GED recipient
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Planning to attend an accredited Georgia college or university as a full-time student

The Jo Farr Scholarship Fund was established in memory of Jo Cronic Farr, a former teacher at Gainesville High School. In 2024, one $5,000 award for 2 years is available to graduating seniors at Gainesville High School. Applicants can be eligible to attend a two-year junior college, a technical school, or a four-year university with preference to those planning to attend the University of North Georgia or the University of Georgia. Additional consideration given to demonstrated financial need, extra-curricular activities & academics.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of Gainesville High School
• GPA of 2.0 or higher

Established in memory of Jody Tucker, a 1985 Gainesville High School graduate, this scholarship assists the average student in pursuing a higher education. The Jody Tucker Memorial Scholarship is available to graduating seniors at Gainesville High School who are attending a public school in the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia.

2024 award: A $2500 scholarship, renewable for two additional years if criteria is met, for a total amount of $7500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of Gainesville High School
• Planning to attend a public school in the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia

 

CLICK HERE to donate to the Jody Tucker Memorial Scholarship.

The Honorable Richard S. Gault was a distinguished Georgian, a highly respected jurist, a dedicated community leader and a lifelong advocate for education. In 2010, his family decided to honor his memory by establishing the Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship so that residents in his hometown for Forsyth County, Ga., could pursue their educational goals. In 2024, a $2,500 scholarship is available. Applicants may be pursuing an undergraduate or advanced degree as a non-traditional student and should demonstrate a strong desire for further education and academic achievement. Consideration will be given to financial need and also that the student is attending an institution in Georgia.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Resident of Forsyth County, Georgia
• Non-traditional student
• Enrolled in an accredited college, university, or technical school

This scholarship awards several annual scholarships for students 9th-12th grade through the Gainesville Kiwanis Club.

This scholarship fund was created by the Lake Blue Ridge Civic Association to create an opportunity for students in Fannin County to receive a scholarship to further their education. Seniors from Fannin County High School can apply for this scholarship which will award 2 scholarships in 2024: 1 – $1,500 and 1 – $3,000, both are one-time awards.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Fannin County High School Student
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student

For graduating seniors at Rabun County High School and Rabun-Gap Nacoochee School. This fund is not included in our online application. Please contact your school counselor for more information and the application.

For graduating seniors at Lambert High School who have participated on either the boys or girls lacrosse team for at least one season. Students will find this scholarship on the scholarship portal as a separate application, named the “2024 Lambert Lacrosse Scholarship Application”. The 2024 scholarship awards 2 scholarships for $4,000 each ($1,000 renewable each year if guidelines are met).

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Lambert High School
• Played on either the boys or girls high school lacrosse team for at least one season
• Minimum 2.8 cumulative which must be maintained to renew
• Show active involvement in the lacrosse community during college in order to renew

This scholarship was established in 2019 in honor of East Hall High School counselors Leigh Cumiskey and Clarence Jones. This scholarship is available to a graduating senior from East Hall High School that has made an impact on his/her school and community. A combination of merit and financial need will be considered, and priority will be given to those applicants who are first generation college students. The 2024 award is $500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at East Hall High School
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school

The Mary Joan Keeney Scholarship was established in 2017 to honor the memory of Joan Keeney and her dedication to continuing education. In 1992, at the age of fifty-nine, she attended Denver Seminary in Denver, Colorado and completed a life-long dream of earning a Master’s in Counseling. Upon graduation, she volunteered as a grief and bereavement counselor at The First Presbyterian Church in Boulder, Colorado. Her life passion was helping others heal and return to love. The purpose of this scholarship is to provide non-traditional, female students interested in nursing and mental health careers access to funds to help further their education and/or certification.

In 2024, there will be two scholarships awarded. Each scholarship will be for $2,500 each.

Applicants may apply each year they are in school and meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Non-traditional Female*
• A strong desire to further their education in the nursing or mental health field

*Non-traditional is defined as a first-time student or returning student that has not just graduated from high school pursuing an advanced certificate or degree.

This scholarship was established in 2023 at the North Georgia Community Foundation by Pam Walcott, in memory of her husband Michael Walcott who passed away suddenly on October 21, 2021. Michael Walcott taught Economics at White County High School. He was a gifted teacher and received the “Teacher of the Year” award twice. He had a dry sense of humor which he combined with his passion for economics. He impacted the lives of many students.

 

Michael’s hobbies included ultra-running and cycling. He completed 103 Marathons or longer races, including 12 100-mile runs. He’d also cycled 6000 miles during the last 10 months of his life.

 

This annual award is available to graduating seniors at White County High School. Additional selection considerations include demonstrating financial need, desire, extra-curricular activities, and academics. An overall GPA of 3.0 or better is required to be eligible for this scholarship. The 2024 scholarship award amount will be $1,500.

 

Criteria for this scholarship:

• White High School graduating senior
• Attending an accredited College, University or Technical College3.0 GPA, or higher

The Mickey and Kat Long Scholarship Fund was established in 2023 at the North Georgia Community Foundation by Kathryn (Kat) Long, in memory of her husband Mickey Long who passed away in January of 2021. Mickey and Kat both grew up in Rabun County, where Mickey was on the first Rabun County High School football team. Mickey developed a love for Gainesville High School, where all six of his and Kay’s children graduated from. He led numerous projects for GHS, which earned him an honorary degree in 2012. Mickey was an avid sport fan, cheering on GHS teams, as well as supporting the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

This is an annual award available to graduating seniors at GHS who have an overall GPA of 3.5 or better and participate in athletics. The recipient must be planning to pursue their education at Georgia Tech. The amount of the 2024 scholarship award is $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Gainesville High School graduating senior
• Athlete
• 3.5 GPA, or higher
• Attending the Georgia Institute of Technology

This scholarship fund was established in 2004 by Refrigiwear on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, in memory of its founder Myron Breakstone. Myron Breakstone founded Refrigiwear, Inc. in 1954, and since 1992 the company’s home has been in Lumpkin County. The Myron Breakstone scholarship is awarded to a deserving Lumpkin County High School Senior seeking technical or traditional higher education. In 2024, the scholarship is awarded in the amount of $2,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Lumpkin County High School

This scholarship was established in 2020 at the North Georgia Community Foundation in loving memory of Niki Giradeau Holcomb and plans to award nontraditional students who are pursuing a career in nursing. Niki was the daughter of John and Bobbie (Mercer) Giradeau. She and her husband, Bill, had two children, Brady, and Camille, who were her pride and joy. She was a 1988 graduate of Gainesville High School and graduated in 2012 from the nursing program at the University of North Georgia. She worked as a labor and delivery nurse at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville and later as a nurse with HealthWell Solutions at the Hall County Family Health Clinic. Niki passed away from cervical cancer in 2019 at the young age of forty-nine.

Current plans call for the scholarship to be awarded annually to students in a nursing program at UNG, who show financial need. A preference will be given to students who are Gainesville or Hall County residents. To donate directly to this fund, CLICK HERE.

This scholarship was established in memory of Patrick Kelley, an extraordinary student who excelled in all aspects of life at Gainesville High School. This scholarship highlights Patrick’s love & commitment to the band. In 2024, one $1,500 scholarship is available to a senior GHS band/auxiliary member who has made significant contributions to the band.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Gainesville High School
• A member in good standing of the Gainesville High School Band program
• Minimum GPA 2.5; however, in the presence of other overwhelming accomplishments in music and civic leadership, less than 2.5 GPA will be considered
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university as a full-time student

This scholarship was established by the community in memory of Patrick Kelley, an outstanding student at GHS. Patrick was known for his academic ability, musical talent & service. He was a member of the GHS Band, played in two orchestras, was an Eagle Scout, attended the Governor’s Honors Program & was active in youth group. In 2024, this $2,500 scholarship is available to seniors at Hall County/Gainesville City public high schools planning to attend an accredited U.S. college/university.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at a Hall County or Gainesville City public high school
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university

The Rushton Educational Scholarship was established in 2022 by Rushton, a CPA firm in Gainesville, Georgia. This scholarship is awarded to a full-time rising junior or senior college student who is pursuing a degree in accounting at the University of North Georgia. The student is required to be maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or above. Additionally, the extra-curricular activities of the student will also be taken into consideration and may increase their opportunity for selection. The 2024 scholarship will be two one-time awards in the amount of $1,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• A full-time rising junior or senior college student attending the University of North Georgia
• Pursuing a degree in accounting
• Must maintain a minimum 3.0 average

This scholarship was established by the family of Russell and Sandra Davis in memory of their shared love of learning. Russell and Sandra Davis were first generation college. They both worked extremely hard to establish a highly successful commercial roofing company in Georgia. They value education and want to give back to their community through this scholarship. The 2024 scholarship will be awarded in the amount of $1,200.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior or GED recipient in Hall County, Gwinnett County or Dekalb County
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student
• Minimum GPA 3.0

This scholarship was created in 2019 by the family of Ms. Shirley Black McDonald. It is intended to honor the memory of Ms. McDonald celebrating her success as a local columnist in White County as well as her service as the “Official Historian of White County. The 2024 scholarship is a one-time award of $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at White County High School
• Interest in journalism and/or history
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university as a full-time student

The Siamak Yari Engineering Scholarship Fund was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in November of 2022. This scholarship is a one-time award to full-time rising junior or senior college students who are pursuing a degree in engineering.

Financial need will be the primary consideration of potential scholarship candidates; community service and volunteering will also be taken into consideration. Candidates from an immigrant or minority family will be given preferential consideration. This scholarship will grant its inaugural award in 2025.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• A full-time rising junior or senior college student
• Pursuing a degree in engineering
• Must maintain a minimum 3.0 average
• Attends a public or private college or university in the state of Georgia
• Resident of the state of Georgia

This scholarship was established in 2020 by family and friends in memory of Susan Bible Jessup, who passed away in 2019. Mrs. Jessup was a long-time teacher at Gainesville Middle School and had a deep passion for education. She loved young people and was extremely devoted to her community.

Selection considerations (in order of priority) include demonstrating financial need, desire, extra-curricular activities, and academics. The 2024 scholarship will award 2 scholarships in the amounts of $2,300.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Gainesville High School
• Planning to attend a Georgia college, university or technical college as a full-time student
• Minimum GPA 2.5

The TD Automotive Compressor Georgia (TACG) Community Scholarship was established in 2006 to provide competitive scholarships to graduating seniors of public high schools in Jackson County, Ga. The scholarship awards a $1,500 scholarship (renewable for three additional years).

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Resident of Jackson County
• Minimum GPA 2.5 which must be maintained to renew
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student

The TD Automotive Compressor Georgia (TACG) Family Scholarship was established to provide a $1,500 scholarship to graduating seniors of TACG Associates’ family members. Family members are defined as children and grandchildren (including step).

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating high school senior who is the child or grandchild (including step) of a TD Automotive Compressor Georgia employee
• 5 minimum GPA
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student

Tommy Aaron established this scholarship to honor his father who taught him that the game of golf promotes integrity & respect which are important in society. The 2024 scholarship will award one student for $10,000, awarded at $2,500/year.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior at Hall County/Gainesville City public schools & Lakeview Academy
• Planning to attend an accredited U.S. college/university
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• An interest in golf
• Possess integrity, sportsmanship, honesty
• Demonstrated financial need

The Toyota Industries Compressor Parts America (TICA) Community Scholarship was established in 2015 to provide competitive scholarships to graduating seniors of public high schools in Jackson County, Ga. 2024 graduating high school seniors from any public high school in Jackson County are eligible to apply for this $1,500 award (renewable for 3 years).

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Resident of Jackson County
• Minimum GPA of 2.5 which must be maintained to renew
• Planning to attend an accredited US college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student

The Toyota Industries Compressor Parts America (TICA) Family Scholarship was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation to provide a scholarship to graduating seniors of TICA Associates’ family members. Family members are defined as children and grandchildren (including step). The 2024 award is $1,500.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Graduating high school senior who is the child or grandchild (including step) of a Toyota Industries Compressor Parts of America employee
• Planning to attend an accredited US college, university, or vocational school as a full-time student

This scholarship was established by the late Louise Fedderwitz Carlisle in memory of her husband to provide college scholarships for graduating seniors. The 2024 scholarship is needs-based and awarded to one student in the amount of $10,000 at $2,500 per year.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior from any Hall County public or private high school or homeschool student residing in Hall County
• Planning to attend an accredited U.S. college/university as a full-time student
• Demonstrated financial need

This scholarship was established by the community to honor the memory of Xander Corso, a Johnson High School student. The 2024 award of $1,500 is a needs and merit-based scholarship for outstanding students in Hall County who exemplify the idea of “a life lived for others” and are attending a public school in the University System of Georgia.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior of a Hall County public school
• Demonstrated financial need
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university in the University System of Georgia

This scholarship is funded by employees at the City of Gainesville who give annually to the Community Trust Fund & from sponsors of the Spring Chicken Festival. The scholarship is available to graduating seniors whose parent is employed by the City of Gainesville government. The 2024 award is $2,000.

Criteria for this scholarship:

• Graduating senior whose parent is employed by the City of Gainesville government
• Planning to attend an accredited college, university, or vocational school