Southwest Georgia Farm Credit Announces 2024 Scholarship Recipients
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 2024 Southwest Georgia Farm Credit scholarships include Kell Donalson of Bainbridge, Emma Heard of Camilla, Radhe Patel of Fort Gaines, Mykala Eckler of Albany, and Mason Wilson of Colquitt.
“We were blown away by this year’s recipients’ academic achievements and involvement in their communities," said Paxton Poitevint, CEO of Southwest Georgia Farm Credit. “Each of these students came in very capable of making a difference in their rural communities, and we’re grateful to be able to invest in their futures. We are so excited to see what’s in store for these bright scholars as we celebrate the class of 2024!”
Kell Donalson
Kell Donalson is a senior at Bainbridge 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 his life by helping others. He is a member of FFA, FCA, Key Club President, and participates in countless volunteer positions around his community to give back. “Kell welcomes a challenge with confidence and tenacity as well as undertakes responsibility demonstrated by those with much more experience than he,” said Victoria Hill Harrell, Agriculture Educator and FFA Advisor for Bainbridge High School. Kell will be attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to pursue a degree in Agricultural Communications. Please help us congratulate Mr. Donalson!
Emma Heard
Emma Heard is a senior at Westwood School and is one of two winners of the Farm Credit Scholarship. Heard is extremely active in school sports, clubs, and her community as a member of the National Honor Society, FCA, Art Club, Drama Club, Cheerleading, Student Government President, and more. “She is a driven young lady with the desire to be the best she can be and also seeks to be a leader amongst her peers,” said Lisa McGahee, Mathematics Department Chair at Westwood Schools. “She is kind, thoughtful, and will continue to strive to do the very best in all aspects of her life.” She will be attending the University of Georgia where she will pursue Pharmaceutical Sciences. Please help us congratulate Miss Heard!
Radhe Patel
Radhe Patel is a senior at Pataula Charter Academy and is one of two winners of the Farm Credit Scholarship. Patel has maintained high As throughout all 4 years of high school while being involved in various activities such as National Beta Club, FFA, 4-H, FBLA, and more. “Caring and compassionate, Radhe looks to put the interests of others before herself and is genuinely concerned about the welfare of not only those around her but also in our community who need assistance,” said Lana McFather, Language Arts Teacher at Pataula Charter Academy. “Radhe is a responsible, dependable, mature, and compassionate young lady.” Radhe will be attending Mercer University to pursue a degree in Biochemistry. Help us congratulate Miss Patel!
Mykala Eckler
Mykala Eckler is a senior at Monroe Comprehensive High School and is the HBCU Scholarship winner. Eckler is extremely involved in her high school’s clubs and sports such as Academic Decathlon, Theater Club, Black History Quiz Bowl, Mock Trial, Concert Choir, and more. “Eckler is an exceptional individual who has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic performance, strong leadership qualities, and a genuine commitment to her academics, Tennis, Theater club, as well as many other clubs,” said James McDaniel, Monroe Comprehensive’s Technical Theater Teacher and Tennis Coach. “She is well-respected by peers and faculty alike for her positive attitude and willingness to help others.” Mykala will be attending Albany State University to pursue a degree in Biology. Please help us congratulate Miss Eckler!
Mason Wilson
Mason Wilson is a senior at Miller County High School and the winner of the Technical Scholarship. Wilson is graduating third in his class and is involved in sports and clubs such as Leadership Committee, FFA, Varsity Baseball, High School Fishing Team, and more. “Mason has always impressed me with his hard work, focus, and determination to achieve his goals,” said Terri Cunningham, staff at Miller County High School. “His passion for anything he does sets him apart from other young people his age.” Mason will be attending Georgia Southwestern University this coming fall to pursue Nursing. Please help us congratulate Mr. Wilson!
Congratulations to all!