The winners of the AJC Cup have big plans for their future. For some, that includes attending a historically black college or university. Fourteen recipients of the scholarship will soon be headed to HBCUs throughout the country to start their careers. Take a look below to find out who they are.
Alexis Ikierria Jordan, Frank McClarin High School - Fort Valley State University. Alexis' teachers praised her for demonstrating leadership skills inside and outside of the classroom. They believe the scholar, who will pursue a career in law and justice, will have a promising future.
Austin Lewis Euler, Arabia Mountain High School - Clark Atlanta University. Austin maintained his academic studies while competing on the swim and tennis teams. His teachers said he was confident, intuitive, independent and passionate about his studies.
Brandon Walker, Jonesboro High School - Morehouse College. In addition to excelling academically, Brandon was also a star basketball and tennis player. His motto: "Think independently. Lead creatively."
Diana Villalva-Delacruz, Benjamin E. Mays High School - Albany State. Diana's counselor said she is a wonderful person and a delight to know. The teen was also highlighted for her ebullient spirit and deep humanity.
Evanne' Casimir, Clarkston High School - Spelman College. Evanne' was an active member in several clubs and organizations at her school, including the American Sign Language Club and the Dual Enrollment/Onward Academy Program at Georgia Piedmont Technical College. In May 2019, she earned an associate's degree in business administration from the institution.
Jordyn Ashley Cooper Greenwood, Newton High School - Savannah State University. Jordyn was the salutatorian of her class. Upon graduating from Savannah State University, she plans to become an epidemiologist for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Joshua Henry, Forest Park High School - Bethune Cookman College. Joshua's teachers were impressed by his ability to urge others to seek excellence. They said he always went out of his way to make others feel comfortable in the face of adversity.
Kamaria Horton, Eagle's Landing High School - Hampton University. During her time at Eagle's Landing, she was a part of the track and field team, the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Kamaria's teachers said she was "the epitome of "academic success, athletic promise and community involvement."
Madison Kai Weatherspoon, Westlake High School - Southern University A &M College. Madison excelled in both academics and sports, including cheerleading and track. Her teachers praised her for always being willing to lend a helping hand.
Oscar T. Wyatt, Frederick Douglass High School - Benedict College. Not only was Oscar among the top 10 in his class, he was also a stellar athlete in football, track and field, swim, and tennis. His personal quote is, "If I ever fail, just know I gave it my all."
Rawlin Lee Tate Jr., Woodland High School - North Carolina A & T. In 2019, Rawlin became the first African American male valedictorian at his school. He will be attending North Carolina A & T in Greensboro on a full academic ride with plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering.
Wambui Imani Karobia, South Cobb High School - Howard University. While at South Cobb, Wambui participated in the Beta Club, Habitat for Humanity and the St. Monica's Orphanage in Kenya. Her favorite quote is from Eleanor Roosevelt: "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
Zora McKoy, Dutchtown High School - Spelman College. Zora's teachers called her creative and confident. They said she demonstrated excellence in her academic and athletic endeavors.
Joshua Tyler Vaccianna, Henry County High School - Morehouse College. Joshua served over 100 hours of community service through Noah Ark Children Shelter. He was credited for being well-rounded not just in his academics but also in his extracurricular activities.
Necye' Griggs, Coretta Scott King Young Women's Leadership Academy - Alabama State University. Necye' teachers spoke highly about her work ethic and leadership. Her favorite message is from Audrey Hepburn: "Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm possible!'"
