Two GCPS graduates secure Georgia United Foundation Scholarships

     Recent Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) graduates, Emily Douglas of Grayson High School and Joshua Cornett of North Gwinnett High School, are recipients of Georgia United Foundation high school scholarships. The GCPS graduates are two of six to receive scholarships from Georgia United Credit Union Foundation in partnership with Georgia United Credit Union.

     Emily is the recipient of the $2,500 Polly Hinde Scholarship after competition with over 100 high school seniors in a one-minute video essay to answer the question: “How will you use your education to improve your community?” In her video, Emily states that she believes music can transform lives and her goal is to start a non-profit afterschool music program for students who can’t afford regular music lessons. Her program would provide clinics and donated instruments, so every student has the opportunity to express their creativity and explore their potential.

     “Music has transformed who I am. It’s helped me grow as a leader, build meaningful connections, and excel academically,” Emily says.

     Emily plans to study Business and Music Technology at the Georgia Institute of Technology this fall. Emily was also named an AP Scholar with Distinction, a Georgia Merit Scholar, and also serves as a worship leader at her church while maintaining a 4.3 GPA.

     Joshua received the $2,500 Monsignor Stephen T. Churchwell Scholarship after competing against over 100 high school seniors in a one-minute video essay to answer the question: “How will you use your education to improve your community?” In his video, Joshua speaks of his love for math and analytics, stating he would like to use his education to help provide financial guidance to members of his community, helping them make more informed financial decisions and better prepare for uncertainty.

     “Success comes from preparation, timing, and adapting when something unexpected comes our way. I plan to study actuarial science, using math and data to understand future risk and help people plan,” Joshua adds.

     Joshua is unsure which college he will attend. He is also a HOPE Scholarship recipient and an AP Scholar with Distinction.

     For years, the Georgia United Foundation has been dedicated to enriching lives by offering scholarships that make it easier for Georgia families to afford college. These scholarships are awarded annually to empower students to achieve their academic dreams. So far, Georgia United Scholarships have impacted approximately 430 students and educators with nearly $750,000 disbursed. Georgia United Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life for children and families in the communities it serves through impactful programs funded through corporate contributions and delivered via volunteer efforts from team members and community partners. The foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is the philanthropic arm of Georgia United Credit Union. For more information, please contact the foundation by emailing foundation@gucu.org.