Leana Atkinson of Broxton is among seven recent high school graduates statewide who have each been awarded a $3,000 scholarship from the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture. An additional seven graduating high school seniors each received $1,500 scholarships from the foundation.
The scholarships recognize and assist deserving and outstanding students pursuing college degrees in agriculture or an ag-related degree at a college in the University System of Georgia, Berry College or Emmanuel College.
Atkinson, the daughter of David and Angie Atkinson, graduated from Coffee County High School (CCHS) this year and plans to attend the University of Georgia in the fall at its Tifton Campus where she plans to pursue a degree in agriculture education. She has been an active FFA member for the past seven years and served as president of her high school chapter this past school year. For the past two years, Atkinson has served on the Coffee County Farm Bureau Junior Board and a one-year term on the First National Bank Junior Board. She has been a member of the CCHS Health Occupation Student Association for four years and served as the club president this year. She has also been a cheerleader for seven years.
“Agriculture is Georgia’s leading economic sector. The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture would like to keep it that way, which is why it continues to invest in the bright minds that will power our industry in the future,” said Lily Baucom, executive director of the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA).
The GFA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to advancing Georgia agriculture and creating healthy communities. The GFA works with Georgia Farm Bureau and other agricultural and educational organizations throughout Georgia to achieve its mission. The foundation is governed by a board of directors comprised of farmers, educators and Georgia agricultural leaders.
To achieve its mission, the GFA funds projects that increase the public’s understanding of agriculture; offers scholarships to students pursuing careers in agriculture and funds leadership development programs. To make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about the foundation, visit www.gafoundationag.org or contact GFA Executive Director Lily Baucom at 478-405-3461 or lrbaucom@gfb.org. Instructions for applying for the 2021 scholarships will be announced on the foundation website in the fall.