by: Jamie Tuggle​ ​​

Communications Coordinator
Carrollton City Schools

CARROLLTON, GA — The Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation celebrated its 2025 scholarship awards at the fourth annual scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Students, parents, and donors gathered to recognize 43 students who received awards.

This year, thanks to the generosity of private donors, the foundation awarded nearly $57,000 to students, including three new scholarships honoring students and staff as well as two new grants for school-level teams at Carrollton City Schools.

The Wendy Mason Memorial Scholarship honors the beloved Carrollton High School counselor who passed away in 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for her compassion and dedication, the new scholarship supports CHS students pursuing careers in counseling or education, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others succeed.

As an investment in the power of mentorship, the Mentor Fund honors Robert and Judy Myers for their leadership and service in founding the Carroll County Mentor Program. Created to celebrate the power of mentorship, the scholarship supports students with college or technical school expenses.

The William Traylor Jr. Leadership-Athlete Scholarship supports CHS student-athletes who exemplify leadership, academics, and service. A 1947 CHS graduate, Traylor lettered in four sports, led the Letterman’s “C” Club, served in the U.S. Army, and built a legacy of business and civic leadership in Carrollton. His lifelong commitment to community and the Trojan spirit lives on through this new scholarship. 

The two grants that were introduced this year were established to support specific needs within the school system.

The David Brooks Family Fund, established by longtime educators Melanie and David Brooks, supports aspiring teachers in the CHS Education Pathway. With over 55 years of combined service to Carrollton City Schools, the Brooks family’s legacy of educational impact continues through this grant, which supports future educators in the CHS Education Pathway.

The newly established Brooks, Glanton, Waters Grant honors Bess Z. Miller and her lifelong dedication to the Carrollton community. The fund provides essential support to help Carrollton City Schools meet basic student needs outside of the classroom, allowing them to focus on learning. Annual grants are awarded to the three lower school counseling offices. 

“We are proud of the students who were recognized as the 2025 recipients of the scholarships,” said Kristen Gill, the foundation’s executive director. “These seniors are selected through an application process by a committee consisting of board, community, and school faculty members. The scholarship program is one of our most celebrated each year, and these students have worked hard to reach this milestone. We wish them the best of luck and hope these awards will serve as a launching pad for their continued success in college.”

The Dubba Schulenburg Art Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Bronwyn Jackson was awarded the Dubba Schulenburg Art Scholarship, established by family and friends in memory of Ernest Wicker “Dubba” Schulenburg. Dubba grew up in Texas, where he received a Business Degree from the University of Houston and served two years in the military. After marrying his wife, Judy, he moved to Carrollton, where he owned and operated Carrollton Insurance Company. He was an accomplished artist, receiving a scholarship to the Houston Institute of Art at twelve years old to perfect his passion. He enjoyed painting, drawing and carving, and his works can be seen in private homes and public spaces throughout Carrollton. This scholarship was established to remember his lasting legacy on the arts in the Carrollton community by supporting aspiring artists and art programs at Carrollton City Schools. Pictured with Bronwyn is Dubba’s son and Carrollton Board of Education member, Greg Schulenburg.

The Akoyé Winston Warrior Scholarship 

Carrollton High School senior Miracle Cox was awarded the Akoye Winston Warrior Scholarship. This scholarship honors the memory of Akoye Winston. He was a seventh-grade student at Carrollton Junior High School in 2013. His mother, LaSonya Heard, his family, and the Pleasant Grove church family chose to honor his life by awarding a scholarship to a deserving Carrollton High School student. The scholarship award was presented at the Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured with Miracle is Lasonya Heard, Akoyé’s mother.

The Carrollton High School Alumni Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors George Carden and Kendall New were semi-finalists, and Luke Zimmer was the overall winner for the Carrollton High School Alumni Scholarship at the Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Established by the Class of 1966, the purpose of the Carrollton High School Alumni Scholarship is to recognize and reward the CHS tradition of excellence. The scholarship honors graduating seniors who exemplify a high level of success during their time at CHS in the areas of academics, leadership, service to the community, humanitarianism, creativity and career aspirations. Scholarship recipients should show promise for continuing to advance those ideals throughout their lives and careers. 

Pictured from left are George Carden, Susan Ingle, Jean Traylor, and Kendall New. 

Pictured from left are Susan Ingle, Luke Zimmer, and Jean Traylor. 

The Ben Stallings Football Scholar Award

The Ben Stallings Football Scholar award was established in 2009 as a memorial by family and friends of 2005 Carrollton High School graduate Ben Stallings, an exceptional student-athlete and third-generation Trojan. This award is presented annually to a graduating senior football player with the highest academic average. This year’s recipient is Cole Norred. CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22. Pictured are CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit and Cole Norred.

The Bennett Reed Stedwell Memorial Scholarship 

The Bennett Reed Stedwell Memorial Scholarship was established in 2018 by family and friends to honor the memory of 2010 Carrollton High School graduate Bennett Reed Stedwell, an exceptional student who was a founding member and captain of the internationally recognized and award-winning CHS Trojan Remotely-Operated Vehicle (R.O.V.) Team. 

This year’s recipient is Jairus Fortune. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured are CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit and Jairus Fortune.

The Bryson-Caylor Family Scholarship

The Bryson-Caylor Family Scholarship was established in love and appreciation for the contributions Carrollton, and the Carrollton City Schools System have made to the Bryson and Caylor families since 1968. This scholarship aims to encourage a student who has met difficult challenges in his or her life with uncommon determination and to help further that student’s education. This year’s recipient is Erick Castro. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton.  Pictured from left are David Bryson, Erick Castro, Dr. Jewel Bryson, and Mark Bryson.

The Coach Charlie Grisham Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors Jabari Elder and Lillian Colquitt were awarded the Charlie Grisham Memorial Scholarship at the third annual CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. This scholarship honors Charlie Grisham, the revered football coach at Carrollton High School from 1958 to 1986 who left a lasting mark on Georgia’s athletic landscape. Pictured from left are Lillian Colquitt, Sherri Grisham Bruce, and Jabari Elder.

The Charles Richard Mehaffey Scholarship

The Charles Richard Mehaffey Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Richard Mehaffey, a 1950 graduate of Carrollton High School. This scholarship is a testament to Mr. Mehaffey’s love for Carrollton High and his commitment to education. It aims to support students who aspire to become engineers or pursue STEM-related fields after college. The scholarship, spanning four years, reflects the enduring impact of Mr. Mehaffey’s life and contributions in the Carrollton community. This year’s recipient is CHS senior Eli Slappey. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured are Eli Slappey and CHS Principal Ian Lyle.

The Chase McDaniel “Chase the Victory” Memorial Scholarship

The Chase McDaniel “Chase the Victory” Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Carrollton High School student Chase McDaniel, who passed away on Nov. 16, 2019, during his senior year after a long battle with cancer. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to students who exhibit the qualities Chase portrayed in his daily life. Chase inspired and encouraged others with an unwavering positive attitude and immense courage while sharing hope and spreading kindness to all he met. This year’s recipient is Jacob Ricks. The scholarship award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured from left are Kiki McDaniel, Jacob Ricks, and Tracy McDaniel.

The Carrollton High School National Honor Society Scholarship

The CHS National Honor Society Scholarship was formed to recognize senior NHS students who have upheld the four pillars of NHS, including acting as a leader in the school and community, serving others through community involvement, and setting an example of high integrity and moral character for their peers. This year’s recipient is Rhian Wright. Pictured with Rhian Wright is Michael Harvey, CHS teacher and NHS club sponsor.

The Clay Robinson Family Scholarship

The Clay Robinson Family Scholarship was established in 2021 by Carrollton native Clay Robinson. The scholarship will benefit students attending West Georgia Technical College to pursue a trade certification or degree program. This year’s recipient is Skyy Bonner. The scholarship award was presented by Clay Robinson at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured with Skyy is Clay Robinson.

The Don Hall Band Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Hunter Moore was awarded the Don Hall Band Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22. The scholarship was created from community donations made to honor the legendary CHS band director, who retired in 1998, and band booster support. Pictured from left are Dr. Chris Carr, Hunter Moore, and Don Hall.

The Dr. Jerry Robinson Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Charlotte Collins was presented the Dr. Jerry Robinson Scholarship. This scholarship honors Dr. Jerry Robinson, Valedictorian of the Carrollton High School Class of 1958. Dr. Robinson was a successful Radiologist in Carrollton for 29 years and has provided a lasting impact on our community. Established by Dr. Robinson’s wife, Alice, and their family, this scholarship aims to recognize a student who wishes to pursue a career in medicine. Dr. Robinson and his wife Alice presented the scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured with Charlotte are Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Robinson. 

The Officer Jason Rowell #208 Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Gabriella Carnes was presented the Officer Jason Rowell #208 Memorial Scholarship, which honors the life and legacy of Rowell. Jason grew up in the West Georgia area, where he served in law enforcement. Rowell was a fixture at Friday night Trojan football games and a daily friend and role model. In addition, he had a love of music and volunteered his time with Bert’s Big Adventure, mentoring children with chronic and terminal illnesses. The award was presented by Jason’s wife, Amy, and their daughter, Ava, at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station in Carrollton. Pictured from left are Ava Rowell, Gabriella Carnes, and Amy Rowell.

The Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. McGinnis Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Nifer Deka was awarded the Joseph B. McGinnis Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. The McGinnis family established the scholarship to honor McGinnis for his decades of public service on the Carrollton Board of Education and as Carrollton’s mayor. In addition, his wife, Carole Copeland McGinnis, also a native of Carrollton, was a devoted partner and mother for more than sixty-one years. This scholarship was established to honor Joe and Carole’s pride in the Carrollton City School System. Pictured with Nifer is Glen McGinnis.

The John Wesley Tanner, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Drew Mills was awarded the John Wesley Tanner Jr. Memorial Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. The scholarship, funded by the Tanner family, is presented to a student of high moral character who is also involved in community and church activities. Pictured with Drew is Johnny Tanner.

The Joshua Roy Mabry Memorial Scholarship

Carrollton High School seniors Kadyn Balson and C.J. Kelley received the Joshua Roy Mabry Memorial Scholarship, presented on April 22 at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast at City Station. Mabry’s family established the scholarship as a memorial tribute to the long-time Carrollton Board of Education member who died in November 2008. Pictured with Kadyn and C.J. are members of the Mabry family.

The Kyle Liam Barry Scholarship

The family of Kyle Liam Barry, a 2008 honor graduate of Carrollton High School, has established a scholarship to honor the memory of the son, brother, cousin, teammate and friend.  Barry played with distinction for the Trojan Varsity Soccer Team all four years of his high school and continued to play soccer at the next level on an academic/athletic scholarship at Reinhardt University. He completed his studies at the University of Georgia in 2012. This scholarship recognizes soccer players who distinguish themselves in the classroom, on the field, and, most importantly, in their character. This year’s recipients are Katherine Tollerson and Carlos Hernandez. Pictured with Katherine and Carlos are Glenn Barry, Jackie Marshall, and Brian Hungerford. 

The Lisa Crawford Love Family Scholarship for the Performing Arts

Carrollton High School senior Alexis Hansen is this year’s recipient of the Lisa Crawford Love Scholarship for the Performing Arts. Love, a Carrollton High School graduate, is a performing arts professional who operated a successful studio in Carrollton for many years. This scholarship honors a student with a passion for the arts and a strong desire to pursue a performing arts career. The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Alexis is Kristie Hayden, daughter-in-law of Lisa Crawford Love.

The Mike Lankford Memorial Scholarship

The Mike Lankford Memorial Scholarship was established by the Lankford family to support a student acquiring higher education. This scholarship honors the memory of Mike Lankford, a beloved former coach and teacher at Carrollton High School. After a decorated military career, Coach Lankford spent the next four decades dedicating countless hours to both the classroom and the field or court, shaping students’ lives as an impactful teacher and coach. This scholarship highlights support for first-generation college students and stands as a tribute to Coach Lankford’s memory and enduring legacy within Carrollton City Schools. This year’s recipient of the award is Daniel Smith. Pictured with Daniel is CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit.

The RaLin Memorial Scholarship 

The RaLin Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Ron Patjens and Walt Fleming. Both men were passionate builders committed to the pursuit of excellence. They were stellar models of RaLin’s simple approach to business and enjoyed mentoring others. Through decades of experience in the industry, they touched the lives of many in their field. This year’s semifinalists are seniors Darwin Arias and Kishan Patel, and Tristan Morin is this year’s scholarship recipient. The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with semifinalists Darwin and Kishan is Michael Heisey, representing RaLin. 

Pictured with scholarship recipient Tristan Morin is Andrew Stewart, representing RaLin.

The “Live Like Josh” Scholarship

The “Live Like Josh” Scholarship is established in loving memory of Josh Waldrep, who passed away in 2022. Josh was a Carrollton High School graduate and a remarkable individual who left a lasting mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him. Josh was known for his ability to befriend anyone he met and bring joy to the lives of those around him. The “Live Like Josh” Scholarship aims to keep his memory alive and inspire the next generation to approach life with the same boundless enthusiasm. The recipient of this scholarship is Candence Wilson. The award was presented at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Cadence is Josh’s mom, Karen Waldrep.

The RGP Memorial Scholarship: 

This scholarship was created in memory of Ralyx Grace Price, a student at Bremen High School who passed away at the age of 15. She had a profound impact on many people, including those in the Carrollton High School community. Ralyx had a gentle spirit and infectious personality. She was a kind, thoughtful and trustworthy friend and her compassion and consideration for others were effortless. This scholarship was created by her family and the Stronghouse Foundation to honor her memory by helping others reach their full potential by continuing their education. The award was given to Allen Hawkins at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Allen are friends of Ralyx’s family, Allen and Ashley Newton. 

The Reico North Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Amira Johnson was awarded the Reico North Scholarship at the  CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. This scholarship was established to honor Reico North, a beloved coach and outstanding alumnus of Carrollton High School. Coach North impacted many young students in the community through his love of tennis and Coach North’s family established this scholarship to honor his legacy. Pictured with Amira is CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit.

The Ronnie Walton Memorial Scholarship

The Ronnie Walton Memorial Scholarship honors the lifelong educator at Carrollton High School who spent more than thirty years teaching English and creative writing. The scholarship focuses on students who wish to pursue a career in teaching, writing, or related fields. This year’s recipient is Blakelee Isbill. Joshua was presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Blakelee are Walton’s wife, Carol, and their daughter, Beth.

The Sheri Davis Memorial Scholarship

Presley Mashburn was awarded a Carrollton City Schools Education Foundation scholarship established in memory of Sheri Davis, a beloved fifth-grade teacher at Carrollton Upper Elementary School. The endowment for this award was established by donations from the Carrollton community and beyond and will benefit a graduating senior who plans to pursue a teaching career. Mrs. Davis’ husband, Dr. Steve Davis, presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Presley is Steve Davis.

The Stanley Parkman/Times-Georgian Media Award

Carrollton High School senior Jayden Howard was awarded the Stanley Parkman/Times-Georgian Media Award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. The scholarship, established in 2007, honors the memory of Stanley Parkman, founder and long-time publisher of the Times-Georgian newspaper, sponsor of this scholarship. Mr. Parkman, whose four children are graduates of Carrollton High School, had been a strong supporter of the school system. Students eligible for this award must excel in at least one of the following Carrollton High School media programs: Yearbook, Broadcasting, Journalism, or Graphic Arts. Pictured with Jayden are Rachael Raney and Rebecca Leftwich, representing the Times-Georgian.

The Susan W. Gordy Spirit Award

First awarded in 2013, the Susan B. Gordy Spirit Award was established by cheerleading parents as a tribute to the team’s former head coach and Carrollton High School Athletic Hall of Fame member, who led three competitive squads to state titles. The recipient of this award embodies the true Trojan spirit, though it is not exclusively awarded to cheerleaders. This year’s recipient is Niyla Denson. Susan Gordy presented the award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. Pictured with Niyla is Susan Gordy.

The Trojan Spirit & Leadership Scholarship

Carrollton High School senior Madison Swint was awarded the Trojan Spirit & Leadership Scholarship at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. The scholarship, honoring Doyle and Margaret Garrett, was established by their children and grandchildren in 2003 as a tribute recognizing their tireless support of Carrollton High School and the Trojan tradition of excellence. Pictured with Madison is Grace Brooks.

Wendy Mason Memorial Scholarship

Honoring the memory of Wendy Mason, a beloved counselor at Carrollton High School who passed away in 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for her compassion and encouragement, she dedicated her life to helping students succeed. This scholarship continues her legacy by supporting Carrollton High School students who plan to pursue careers in counseling or education, fields that reflect her heart for service and her lifelong commitment to student well-being. This year’s recipient is Jacey Sabo. Pictured with Jacey is the Mason family. 

William Traylor Jr. Leadership-Athlete Scholarship 

Supporting CHS student-athletes who reflect his commitment to academics, leadership, and service, the scholarship honors William Traylor Jr., a distinguished CHS alumnus from the Class of 1947, who excelled in athletics and leadership, lettering in four sports and serving as president of the Letterman’s “C” Club. After playing football at West Georgia College and earning a business degree from Emory University, Mr. Traylor served in the U.S. Army and returned to Carrollton, where he led successful businesses and served the city in various leadership roles. A lifelong supporter of education and community, his legacy lives on through his family and dedication to the Trojan spirit. This year’s scholarship recipient is Maddison Hoffman. Maddison is pictured with members of the Traylor family. 

The Whitley Morris Scholar-Athlete Award

Carrollton High School seniors Madison Reese and Jason Ackey were awarded the Whitley Morris Scholar-Athlete Award at the CCS Education Foundation scholarship breakfast on April 22 at City Station. This scholarship honors the memory of Whitley Morris, a 1927 graduate of Carrollton High School. Mr. Morris was a successful businessman who left an endowment to the school system to fund two scholarships awarded to one male and one female student-athlete annually. Pictured with Madison and Jason is Elizabeth Sanders, CHS Athletic Director.

Trojan Memorial Scholarship – Wendy Mason

The Trojan Memorial Scholarship was created in 2024 to honor the memory of all Trojan students and staff who have passed away while actively attending or working at Carrollton City Schools. This award celebrates their impact on our school community while preserving their legacies and the sense of unity, compassion, and excellence that their lives exemplified. Mrs. Mason was a beloved counselor at Carrollton High School who passed away in 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. She had a deep love for her students and was known for her compassion, encouragement, and unwavering support. This scholarship continues her legacy by helping Carrollton High School students pursue their dreams.The recipient of this memorial scholarship is Audrey Browning. Pictured with Audrey is the Mason family. 

Trojan Memorial Scholarship – Rikisha Timilsina

The Trojan Memorial Scholarship was created in 2024 to honor the memory of all Trojan students and staff who have passed away while actively attending or working at Carrollton City Schools. This award celebrates their impact on our school community while preserving their legacies and the sense of unity, compassion, and excellence that their lives exemplified. Rikisha Timilsina was a fourth-grade student at Carrollton Upper Elementary School who passed away earlier this school year. Rikisha’s classmates and teachers recall the joy she brought to every interaction and the light in her eyes when surrounded by those she loved. Mrs. Erica McPike shared how Rikisha loved stories and morning songs and touched the hearts of everyone in her class—and beyond. Rikisha was deeply cherished by her school family and her smile, spirit, and the happiness she brought to others will always be remembered. The recipient of this memorial scholarship is Jaylyn Rooks. Pictured with Jaylyn is CCS Education Foundation President Melina Douthit. 

Mentor Fund honoring Robert and Judy Myers

Established by community leaders in 1988, the Carroll County Mentor Program aimed to reduce school dropouts and enhance the workforce in Carroll County. The program offered mentoring services to students and provided financial support based on their needs. Its primary goal was to assist students with educational expenses related to attending college or technical school. This fund was created to honor the legacy of leadership and community service of Robert and Judy Myers, who were instrumental in the creation and support of the Mentor Program. This year’s scholarship recipient is Joshlin Hill, pictured with Beth and Bob Graf. 

The David Brooks Family Fund

The David Brooks Family Fund, established by Melanie and David Brooks, provides a grant to support aspiring educators in the Education Pathway at CHS. Melanie and David Brooks dedicated their careers to the Carrollton City School System, collectively serving for over 55 years. From teaching and coaching to administrative roles, they have made significant contributions to the education and development of countless students. Their daughters and son-in-law are CHS graduates, and all three work to continue impacting the future of our students in the classroom and on the sports fields. Recognizing the impact that education has had on their family, the Brooks family continues to support future educators. Education Pathway teacher Kaley Blankinship, pictured with David and Melanie Brooks, accepted the grant on behalf of the program. 

The Brooks, Glanton, Waters Grant

The Brooks, Glanton, Waters Grant was founded in 2024 to honor Bess Z. Miller and her lifelong commitment to supporting the Carrollton community. Her legacy lives on through her family’s continued involvement in our schools and their service and outreach to those living in our area. This fund provides direct support to students in Carrollton City Schools, filling in the gaps of basic needs so students can focus on their success in the classroom. Each year, grants will be awarded to the three lower schools to provide this support. CES Counselor Nakeshia Duncan and CMS Counselor Jason Sidel, pictured with members of the Brooks, Glanton and Waters families, accepted the grant on behalf of their schools.

 SCHOLARSHIP BREAKFAST-20250425T182748Z-001.zip

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