Georgia Southwestern State University announced Thursday it is starting a leadership program this fall named after Jimmy Carter and the former president may be involved in advising students in the program.

University spokeswoman Chelsea Collins said in an email it anticipates Carter, 94, who studied there in the 1940s, “will record interviews discussing his leadership philosophy and experiences, and the students will have opportunities to engage with Carter scholars/fellows from across the country.”

Carter said in a statement his close attachment with the university and desire to help students in southwest Georgia encouraged him to support the program.

“They invested in me as a student over 75 years ago, and I want to do the same for the future leaders in our region. I’m very proud of the partnerships that continue to be made at my favorite college,” Carter said.

Georgia Southwestern State University President Neal Weaver, left, looks on as former President Jimmy Carter signs his name in wet concrete at the 2017 Presidential Plaza dedication. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
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It’s a four-year program and students will be required in their final year to develop a senior research or service project.

Students selected to the program are eligible for scholarships between $1,500 to $3,500 a year, the university said. Eligible students must have a minimum high school grade point average of 3.0, a minimum SAT score of 1100 or ACT composite score of 22. Students who hold leadership positions in their high school or community organization also qualify.

The deadline to apply is March 1.

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