North Gwinnett News

Seven seniors from Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) have been awarded the prestigious Gates Scholarship, which will cover their college expenses. These students are among 300 selected nationwide for this honor in 2024.

The recipients include Malik Bailey from Archer High School, Sophia Rodriguez from Central Gwinnett High School, Victor Osele from Discovery High School, Hashim Abdullahi from Grayson High School, Braylon Kelley from Gwinnett Online Campus, Georges Djrogbo from Meadowcreek High School, and Kevin Nhan from Mountain View High School.

The Gates Scholarship is funded by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and aims to support high-potential, low-income minority students by covering costs not met by other financial aid or family contributions. This includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, transportation, and possibly other personal expenses.

Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship offers a comprehensive program providing resources such as career services, mentoring, leadership development, wellness support, and knowledge building. These services are designed to help scholars succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

The scholarship is awarded based on evidence that removing financial barriers enables these students to excel academically and become leaders. To qualify as a Gates Scholar, students must have a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale and rank in the top 10% of their graduating class. They must also demonstrate leadership ability and exceptional personal success skills.