2023 Scholarship Winners
To help ensure a bright future for rural communities, as well as the agricultural industry, Southwest Georgia Farm Credit presents several scholarship opportunities each year. Recipients of the 2023 Southwest Georgia Farm Credit scholarships include Joan Tovar-Martinez from Americus, Hannah Glass of Camilla, Kenneth Murphree of Jakin, Kendal Allen of Blakely, and Taryn Powell of Bainbridge.
“This year’s recipients have a spirit for learning, a strong dedication to their communities, and goals that will undoubtedly shape a successful future for rural Georgia" , said Paxton Poitevint, CEO of Southwest Georgia Farm Credit. “Each of these students are accomplished in their academics and are active within their schools and community. We are excited to see what the future holds for these bright scholars and together, we celebrate the class of 2023!”
Joan Tovar-Martinez
Joan Tovar-Martinez is a senior at Sumter County High School and is the Duane Watson Scholarship Winner. This scholarship was created in honor of the late Duane Watson, who measured the value of the life he lived, by helping others. Tovar-Martinez is involved in a range of community and academic activities. “I have never met a student with more passion, work ethic, and integrity than Joan” said Philip Gentry, Sumter County Farm Advisor and Ignite College and Career Academy Advisor. "Joan exemplifies the character traits that are rare to find in today’s world. His honesty, faith, and attitude would make Mr. Duane proud to know that Joan is going to be a future leader in agriculture,” said Bo Minor, Minor Brothers Farm. Joan Tovar-Martinez will be attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to major in Agriculture Technology and minor in Agribusiness. Please help us congratulate Mr. Joan!
Hannah Glass
Hannah Glass is a senior at Westwood School and is one of three winners for the Farm Credit Scholarship. Glass is ranked number one in her class and is very active in school sports, her community, and on her family’s farm. “Hannah is a leader in sports, clubs, and classes,” said Betsy Caldwell, English Department Chair at Westwood Schools. “Her transcript will show her activities, but it will not show her kindness and dedication. I will miss the light she brings with her into any situation.” She will be attending Georgia Tech University where she will pursue Business Administration. Please help us congratulate Miss Glass!
Payne Murphree
Kenneth Murphree is a senior at Early County High School and is one of three winners for the Farm Credit Scholarship. Ranked number one in his class, Kenneth has been involved in many activities in and out of the classroom. “You’ll never find this young man idle,” said David Wolfe, Early County Young Farmer Advisor. “He has set his goals on the highest of achievements.” Kenneth will be attending the University of Georgia to pursue a double major in Biological Sciences and Avian Biology. Help us congratulate Mr. Murphree!
Kendal Allen
Kendal Allen is a senior at Early County High School and the winner of the Farm Credit HBCU Scholarship. Kendal is graduating with honors and is heavily involved within her community of Blakely, Georgia. “Miss Allen is an excellent student as demonstrated by her grades; however these grades cannot convey her thirst for knowledge,” said ECHS Science Teacher and Science Club Sponsor Chris Peace. Kendal Allen will be attending the Fort Valley University this coming fall to pursue Nursing. Please help us congratulate Miss Allen!
Taryn Powell
Taryn Powell is a senior at Bainbridge County High School and is one of three winners for the Farm Credit Scholarship. Taryn is extremely involved within her high school’s clubs such as Anchor Club, President of FFA, Huddler Leader of FCA and the Secretary of Cats Council. “Taryn welcomes a challenge with confidence and humility,” said Bainbridge High School FFA Advisor Victoria Harrell. “She is a goal oriented young woman with ability to speak and relate to someone of all ages, mindset and backgrounds.” Taryn Powell will be attending the University of Georgia this coming fall to pursue Speech Language Pathology. Please help us congratulate Miss. Powell!
Congratulations to all!